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Former BBC journalist Kelly Jobanputra hit by train in “tragic accident”

The 39-year-old passed away on Friday

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An ex-BBC radio newsreader has tragically died after being hit by a train, her family has confirmed.

Journalist Kelly Jobanputra, 39, headed out on Friday afternoon but never returned home.

A fatal incident blocked both railway lines between her hometown of Swindon, Wiltshire and Didcot Parkway at around 3pm.

Kelly’s devastated father John Stooke told the Swindon Advertiser: “We are completely and utterly bereft to lose such a vibrant, attractive, courageous and well-loved family member at such a very young age.

Kelly Jobanputra
Kelly died on Friday (Credit: social media)

“She was in good spirits when she left at lunchtime to go to Asda.

“It seems that, whilst the circumstances are not at all clear, this may well have been, in the end, an unintended and tragic accident.

“Our thoughts are not solely with the devastation to our own family. We also believe the train driver was naturally traumatised and he or she also remains very much in our thoughts and prayers.”

Kelly worked as a presenter at various local BBC radio stations for 15 years before producing a daytime show for Radio 6 Music.

Kelly Jobanputra
Kelly lost her brother 15 years ago (Credit: social media)

Read more: Dianne Oxberry’s widower confirms cause of presenter’s tragic death

She was best known under her maiden name of Kelly Stooke, which she still used as a byline.

She leaves behind a seven-year-old daughter.

Kelly often wrote about her family on reviews, including her daughter, who turned seven last year.

The family lost Kelly’s brother Corrie Stooke in tragic circumstances 15 years ago.

A BBC spokesperson said: “We are sorry to hear this incredibly sad news and our thoughts are with Kelly’s family and friends at this time.”

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Kaggie Hyland
Editor-in-Chief