FAMILY and friends of North Vernon-White are in mourning after the devastating loss of a lad who ‘was the life and soul of everything’.

Floral tributes have been left to the teenager following his heartbreaking death after falling from Tricorn House on Friday.

As Stroud’s young people try to deal with the loss and to come to terms with what has happened, The Door, a charity which provides youth services in the area, and local schools are offering support.

Archway School, where North was a pupil, is providing support and advice to those members of the school community who have been particularly affected.

In a letter, Headteacher Kieron Smith said: "Archway School is incredibly saddened to hear of the death of North Vernon-White.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all those who knew him.

"North was an intelligent, witty, charming young man who had a promising future ahead of him and to hear of his passing is a terrible shock to our whole school community, including his teachers and classmates.

"We would like to thank all those who have sent messages of support to North’s family and our school.

"We are providing support and advice to those members of Archway School who have been particularly affected by this tragic event."

The Door Youth Project is encouraging young people to get in touch and talk to a member of their team.

The Door Youth Project said: "We are deeply saddened and shocked to hear the news, of the death of North Vernon-White, a much loved young person in our community.

"We want to express our sincere condolences to the family who are in our thoughts and prayers.

"The team will be working closely with Archway School to ensure we provide support to young people, families and the community at this time.

"Any young people needing support or to talk through their concerns, are encouraged to reach out to the youthwork team via Instagram or our website: thedoor.org.uk

"Young people can also contact a member of the team in confidence on the Door Line: 01453 705350 (Monday to Friday, 5pm to 7pm).

"Support for Parents is available via our website."

And Marling School is also offering support to pupils, email studentsupport@marling.school for further details.

Help is also available from Winstons Wish via: winstonswish.org/supporting-you/supporting-a-bereaved-child/

And from: https://youngminds.org.uk/find-help/feelings-and-symptoms/grief-and-loss/

Photos by Simon Pizzey