A SEVEN-year-old boy who died in a tragic farm accident ?was always helping on the farm?, say his devastated family. Lewis Brook was killed after becoming trapped under machinery at the family farm near the village of Broadwoodkelly. In a statement issued through the police the family paid loving tribute to the youngster: ?Lewis was an energetic and well-loved lad who was always helping on the farm. ?We are sure he would have followed in his Dad?s and Grandad?s footsteps as he lived for the farm. He was enthusiastic to take over the business when he grew old enough, being the fifth generation who worked on the farm. ?The farm will carry on but we have lost some of the drive and focus that Lewis gave us. We cannot measure how much he will be missed by his family, friends, school, neighbours, local community and members of his Monday Club. ?We are a Christian family and know that the love and our trust in the Lord and His strength and support will help us in the difficult times to come.? The accident occurred on Mount Pleasant Farm shortly after 3.30pm on Saturday. Lewis was released from under the machinery before the emergency services arrived, but was pronounced dead at the scene. Police officers, Devon Air Ambulance and firecrews from North Tawton and Hatherleigh were called to the farm. It is believed he was crushed by a roller attached to a tractor on which a member of his family was carrying out repairs. Lewis was a pupil at Winkleigh Primary School. Headteacher Jane Rivens said: ?It is obviously a time of great sadness. Lewis was a lovely boy and both he and his family were much valued members of our school community. Our hearts go out to them.? The small rural community at Broadwoodkelly was shocked by the sad news. The Rev Peter Norman, Rector of Broadwoodkelly said: ?It is a close-knit community and the family are very much in our thoughts and prayers at the moment.? Mr Norman said prayers had been said at Sunday service and also at the primary school. Lewis lived on the farm with his parents Graham and Cathryn Brook and two older sisters, Katrina, 16, and Heather, 13. The family expressed their gratitude for all the kindness, messages of support and prayers they had received from everybody and asked that they now be allowed to grieve in peace. A joint police and Health and Safety Executive investigation is underway.
