Tributes paid after young Telford Marine's death

Lance corporal Michael Dean Younghusband was just 22 when he lost his life.

His family, friends and colleagues today spoke of the "big emptiness" caused by the death of such a "charismatic", "loving", "polite" and "positive" young man.

Michael, also known as Mikey or Mouse, was "extremely proud" to call himself a Royal Marine and has been hailed as a role model by his family who live in Telford.

He died as he tried to cross railway lines on December 10.

Since May 2014, he had been drafted to the Quartermaster's department at the Commando Logistics Regiment Royal Marines in Chivenor, Devon, where he was soon promoted to Lance Corporal.

The accident is believed to have happened in Devon.

A statement released by his family today said: "Michael was a charismatic and loving young man, the nicest and most polite person.

"Every person that had the privilege of meeting Michael will agree that he was always guaranteed to put a smile on your face."

Born in South Africa, Michael and his family moved to Telford in 1999 where he attended Dothill Primary School and Charlton Secondary School.

At the age of 11, Michael met his lifelong friend Jon and joined the Telford Hornets rugby team.

Following on from this, Michael went on to play league rugby and was selected to play for Shropshire county.

Michael took a step back from rugby to pursue his life's dream of joining the Royal Marines.

He passed out from the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone in October 2012.

He joined 42 Commando in Bickleigh Barracks, Plymouth.

Employed as a rifleman in a close combat troop, he deployed as part of the UK's Lead Commando Group before volunteering for his Stores Accountant Class 3 course.

While in Chivenor, Devon, he progressed on to a Stores Accountant Class 2 course in the month before he died.

Following his passing out, Michael continued his training around the world, including America and Middle East. He lived another dream by being selected to play rugby for the Royal Marines.

Lieutenant Colonel, Bob Baxendale, Commanding Officer of the Commando Logistics Regiment Royal Marines, said Michael was well-known throughout the regiment.

He paid tribute to his "humour and cheer" and his ability to lighten the mood with a "mischievous touch". He said: "LCpl Younghusband's tragic death has both shocked and saddened the unit.

"Professional and very capable, he had firmly established himself within the Quartermaster's Department where he was not only highly professionally competent, but where he also had a very positive influence on those around him.

"Always involved, and always at the centre of any activity, he brought humour and cheer to proceedings, able to lighten the mood with a mischievous touch.

"Our thoughts are very much with his family at this difficult time.

"The family of the Royal Marines stands by to provide whatever support may be required."

His funeral took place at All Saints Church in Wellington on Wednesday.