THE distraught family of a Dorset teenager killed in a horrific skiing accident have paid an emotional tribute to him at the inquest into his death.

Canford School pupil Louis Ross died of massive injuries after crashing into a fence while on a pre-Christmas holiday in the French Alps resort of Meribel with his best friend’s family.

A Bournemouth inquest heard the 17-year-old was skiing on a moderate blue piste as part of a party of seven when tragedy struck.

Louis struck the safety fence, which was around chest height, and was catapulted over the top. His helmet was broken in the fall.

He suffered multiple injuries and died on the slopes despite the efforts of medical professionals who tried for 45 minutes to revive him, Dorset Coroner Sheriff Payne was told.

His father, John, spoke on behalf of the family, including Louis’ mother, Penny, and sisters Gabrielle and Olivia.

He said: “He was a wonderful son and brother, compassionate and funny. We, as a family, are so proud of Louis and what he achieved in his short life.

“His friends and social life were important to him - he was a loyal friend and able to make you feel better about yourself. Losing Louis has left a void in our lives that will never be filled.”

Mr Ross said his son was an accomplished sportsman and a keen musician who attended Sturminster Marshall First School, St Michael’s Middle in Colehill and Castle Court Prep School before going to Canford.

He played tennis, football, rugby, cricket and hockey and played the piano and the guitar.

Since Louis’ death, a foundation - the Louis Ross Foundation - has been set up in his memory to help young people in difficulty.

The inquest heard Louis, of Tarrant Keyneston, near Blandford, was on holiday with Nigel and Lindsey Leggett, their children Edward, George and Grace and Grace’s friend, Daisy Turner when the accident took place.

The group were out together when the accident happened.

Mr Leggett told the inquest he did not see Louis come into contact with the fence and added: “We heard George shouting and he was running towards Louis. He was on the ground three metres beyond the safety net.”

Mr Leggett said he has since attempted to contact ski authorities in a bid to discuss the safety fences provided at such resorts and whether or not improvements can be made to safety.

Formula One legend Michael Schumacher suffered catastrophic injuries in a skiing accident in the same resort in 2013. He spent nine months in hospital and is still in a serious condition.

Recording a verdict that Louis died as the result of an accident, Mr Payne said: “The height of the netting was such that instead of stopping him he was effectively catapulted over the top. This was all clearly unintended and unforeseen.”

The Louis Ross Foundation at louisross.org