A HEADTEACHER has paid tribute to one of her pupils who died suddenly this week.

The 10-year-old who was found unconscious at a private address in Hereford on Wednesday evening was described as a "very popular member of his class".

Pippa Lloyd, the headteacher at St Thomas Cantilupe Church of England School, said the boy was loved by all dearly.

She added that all the school's pupils have been told the sad news and that someone is available at all times to speak to any children needing support.

"No-one knows the circumstances at this point," explained Ms Lloyd.

"We are in contact with the family and we will respect their wishes at all times during this very difficult time and trust that the media and others will also provide the family with the privacy needed at this time.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."

The Bishop of Hereford, Richard Frith, also offered his condolensces to the 10-year-old's family.

He said: “My prayers are with his family and with all members of the school community at this very sad time.

"A death like this always touches a huge number of people, who I hope will support each other.

"I am glad that the school, one of our family of Church of England Schools, has already put help in place to support all those affected, especially the pupils.”

The county coroner has been made aware of the death and it is understood that an inquest will be opened next week.

West Mercia Police confirmed that they were contacted by the ambulance service at 6.20pm on Wednesday as they were "taking a 10-year-old boy to hospital after he had been discovered unconscious at a property in the Widemarsh area of Hereford".

“He was sadly later pronounced dead at Hereford County Hospital," a police statement read.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased and we will work with partners to ensure support is put in place for them.”