Families of British couple killed in Lisbon crash pay tribute
Kayleigh Smith and Will Nelson were among 16 people who died in a funicular railway crash in Portugal's capital
The family of a British couple killed in the Lisbon funicular crash have said they are "heartbroken" in a tribute.
Theatre director Kayleigh Smith, who lived in Macclesfield - and her partner Will Nelson, a lecturer at Manchester's Arden School of Theatre from Chorley - were named as two of the three Britons who died after the popular tourist attraction derailed in the centre of the Portuguese city on Wednesday 3rd September 2025.
The third British victim has yet to be named.
In a statement issued by Cheshire Police, Ms Smith's family said: "Kayleigh was loved by family and friends for her wit and humour, her kind and caring nature came to the fore in her work as a funeral operative.
"She was also a talented theatre director and had just completed a master's degree. They both leave family and friends heartbroken."
Mr Nelson's younger brother said: "Words cannot begin to describe how our family and friends are feeling right now but here is the best attempt.
"This week, due to a tragic accident in Lisbon, Portugal, we lost Will Nelson, who was not just my big brother but everyone's.
"He was always kind, selfless, and protective and the world does not feel right or normal without him. He was and has always been my hero, and we will miss you always.
"Love you, rest in peace you legend."
A total of 16 people died in the crash. Also among the dead were five Portuguese nationals, two Canadians, two South Koreans, one American, one French, one Swiss and one Ukrainian.
A further 21 people were injured, including five seriously.