'Nobody should go to work and not come home'

A devastated family have paid tribute to a teenager who died following an industrial accident.

Zacharias Atkinson, 19, known by loved ones as Puddy, died following the tragic incident earlier this week. A fundraising appeal has been launched to help pay for his funeral.

The Liverpool Echo reports that Puddy died following an accident at the Langton Dock in Bootle, off Regent Road, at around 1.10pm on Wednesday, December 11. Merseyside Police confirmed Puddy died at the scene. Tributes were paid to the 19-year-old who "loved life and lived every moment to the fullest."

READ MORE: Body of man found in River Roch in Heywood

In a tribute from his family, shared by the force, they said: “Our beautiful boy Puddy has had his young life taken in the most horrific circumstances. He loved life and lived every moment to the fullest. He loved Liverpool Football Club, he adored every one of his friends and family. Our family and all of his friends are devastated beyond words. Nobody should go to work and not come home.”

His friends have started a GoFundMe page to raise money for Puddy's funeral, so his loved ones can "give him the send off he deserves." They are also organising a football match to fundraise for funeral expenses.

The GoFundMe page reads: "We are starting a fundraiser to help ease the financial burden of a funeral for a son, brother and friend who tragically passed away from an accident whilst at work.

"Puddy was a true Liverpudlian and proper Red, a kind caring lad who had so much time ahead of him. Passing at only 19 years old, his best friends are arranging a football match - Date and Venue TBA - to raise as much funds as possible to give Puddy the send off he deserves."

You can donate to the GoFundMe for Puddy here.