RAIL tragedy widow Julie Smith today thanked family and friends who are helping her come to terms with the loss of her husbandThe 49-year-old, of Wherstead Road, Ipswich, said she was overwhelmed by the support she has received following the death of Alan SmithThe couple had celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary only two weeks before Mr Smith died.

RAIL tragedy widow Julie Smith today thanked family and friends who are helping her come to terms with the loss of her husband

The 49-year-old, of Wherstead Road, Ipswich, said she was overwhelmed by the support she has received following the death of Alan Smith

The couple had celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary only two weeks before Mr Smith died.

Father-of-two Mr Smith, 51, was killed when he was struck by a Liverpool Street to Norwich train around 7.10am on July 26 near a tunnel, close to Halifax Road in Ipswich.

His funeral took place at Ipswich Crematoriam west chapel last Friday

Since Mr Smith's death the family have received around 110 cards, as well as flowers.

Mrs Smith said: “I would like to thank everyone for the kindness they have shown. We are very grateful. I hadn't seen some of people who were at the funeral for years.

“There has been a lot of support and it has meant a hell of a lot. My friend Sue Allison, in particular, has been brilliant. She tells me to get on the phone and call her if I feel down.

“We have had lovely letters and it's been very comforting. I have tried to reply to them, but I get to a certain point and I just can't get any further because I can't express my feelings.

“People don't know what to say to me and I don't know how to respond to them.”

Mrs Smith said aside from the loss of her husband, the financial burden of being the only breadwinner has made the situation more difficult.

“Now it is the money side of it that's the problem because I have now got to pay to lay Alan to rest.”

Mr Smith will be buried in the grounds of Chelmondiston church next week alongside his granddad Edward 'George' Turner.

Mrs Smith said she is keen to get in touch with her husband's friend Ray Parker who sent a tribute in to The Evening Star following his death, but did not supply his contact details.

“It would be nice to find out where Alan's former best mate Ray lives. We have been trying to find him for ages, but can't trace him.”

If anyone knows how to get in touch with Mr Parker they can telephone Mrs Smith on 07933 203346.