THE FAMILY of the St Albans schoolboy who died on Monday night have praised their son’s big heart and say his death has left a “gaping hole” in their lives.

Year 8 Marlborough School pupil, George Darkins, died shortly after arriving at hospital on Monday evening.

An ambulance had been called to the popular 13-year-old’s home at 9.17pm that night.

In a statement released today, his family said: “We are a very close family and understandably we are all absolutely devastated by what has happened. Not having George here has left a gaping hole in our lives. He was such a lovely boy, he was loved by everyone and he was very loving to us all, our wider friends and family. He was touched by everything and felt things so intensely.”

The keen sportsman, who lived in Langley Road in Watford, played for Fullerians Rugby Club and Langleybury Cricket Club.

The family described George as a positive person who had fantastic friends. “Whenever there was a problem it was George who wanted to help people sort things out. He saw the best in people and never blamed anyone for anything.

“Playing sport meant so much George. If he did something, he did it to the max and put his heart and soul into it. He wasn’t keen on spectating and always wanted to be on the pitch. Earlier this year he broke his arm whilst playing rugby but still travelled to see the team play and help where he could by taking bottles of water onto the pitch. He had so much potential with his sport.”

They added: “George was brave, thoughtful, kind, generous and strong and had the biggest heart in the world. A friend has said that George was turning out to be ‘a fine young man’, we couldn’t agree more. We are so very proud of him.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support from friends and family and we would like to thank everyone for their kind words and thoughts at this very difficult time.”

George’s cricket club say that the promising young man will be missed by everyone who knew him at Langleybury Cricket Club.

A spokesperson said: “His easy going attitude endeared him not only to the coaches and parents but particularly to his team mates who knew they could always rely on George to give his all.

“George was a polite and well-mannered boy who was a pleasure to coach, a great example to his peers and an absolute credit to his parents.”

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances around George’s death.