Still waiting for answer over barn tragedy

Police are continuing to investigate the case of 14-year-old Louis Simpson whose body was found in a farm outbuilding at Fairhurst Hall, Parbold, following a blaze.

Officers have not suggested that there was any foul play involved, but neither has the case yet been handed over to the local coroner.

Louis was reported missing on Sunday, January 29 after playing with several young friends on the land and the barn, on land off Chorley Road, caught fire.

With firefighters at first unable to get into the building because of the heat and other dangers, it had been hoped that the youngster had somehow got away and a major search was launched including a public appeal for help.

But his remains were recovered from inside the following evening.

Louis’s death provoked an outpouring of grief.

A statement from Merchant Taylors’ in Liverpool, at which he was a pupil, read: “Louis was a popular boy and known to many of our pupils. Our school community is in deep shock and we will be providing appropriate support, advice and counselling for pupils, staff and parents over the coming days and weeks.”

His parents issued a statement saying: “We are all truly devastated but want to thank our amazing family and friends for their on-going love and support.”

A Lancashire Police spokeswoman said that inquiries were ongoing.