The mother of Kyle Rees has paid tribute to her son and thanked all those who have given their support after last week’s tragedy.

Kyle, 16, died on Tuesday after an incident the previous day at Portchester School in Bournemouth, when he was struck by a ball.

In a statement issued on Sunday evening, Tanya Cooper said: “We would like to say thank you to all of the people who tried to help our darling Kyle.

“He was cared for in a very gentle, tender and loving way by them all.

“Also, we would like to send our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all of the loving wishes and beautiful words. This would have meant the world to Kyle, as it does to us, to know how many others loved him.

“Words cannot be found to explain how much he loved us or how much love we have for him.

“Our lives will always be emptier without Kyle.

“His energy, laughter, jokes, dancing and his smiles, kisses and cuddles will be eternally missed by us all. “We would like to send love and best wishes to all of the children and their parents on the paediatric ward at Southampton General Hospital, we are thinking of you all.

“Our hearts go out to all family and friends who suffer such a tragic loss.”

Mrs Cooper also paid tribute to police officers Andy Shah and Sarah Gedge.

Dorset police are investigating the circumstances of Kyle’s death.