Parents of Samuel Winter pay tribute to him following conviction - London

The following tribute has been issued by British Transport Police on behalf of Samuel’s parents. They said: 

“We have lost our gentle, hugely compassionate, funny, intelligent and hard-working son Sam because of this entirely unprovoked and horrific assault.  

“We would do anything and give everything to have Sam back with us. But he’s gone for the rest of our lives.  

“The pain of his loss is almost unbearable for us, his wider family, many friends and all the people in his community, whom he loved to help through his physiotherapy, service and personal generosity.  

“We thank God, however, that his death isn’t the end for us. We’ll be reunited with Sam in heaven. There we’ll have eternity to enjoy his company and all he is and does in the presence of our eternally loving, heavenly Father.  

“That reality gives us huge hope today and will do tomorrow, until we’re all together again in heaven. When we welcome God into our lives, our loving relationships are forever. 

“Whilst we thank all those in the British Transport Police and Crown Prosecution Service who’ve worked so hard to bring justice in this terrible situation, this verdict isn’t a pleasure for us. We have unconditionally forgiven Rakeem. As followers of Jesus, we know this is the only way to freedom, peace and well-being in our hearts – to not harbour anger or bitterness. 

“We and many others who knew and loved Sam, are inspired to make this world a better place by welcoming Holy Spirit to be with us and loving one another with the love He brings – just like Sam did and God wants us all to do. We welcome you to join us in doing the same.”