The family of a former Kent schoolboy killed in the Barcelona terror attack have paid tribute to the "energetic, funny and cheeky" youngster.

Seven-year-old Julian Cadman, who was born in Kent and attended Chiddingstone Nursery, died after becoming separated from his mother, Jom, when she broke both legs in Thursday night's van attack on Las Ramblas.

His father, Andrew, identified his body after arriving in the Spanish city yesterday and the family have said they will hold the youngster's memory dear to their hearts.

"Julian was a much loved and adored member of our family," the family said.

"As he was enjoying the sights of Barcelona with his mother, Julian was sadly taken from us.

"He was so energetic, funny and cheeky, always bringing a smile to our faces. We are so blessed to have had him in our lives and will remember his smiles and hold his memory dear to our hearts.

"We would like to thank all those who helped us in searching for Julian. Your kindness was incredible during a difficult time. We also acknowledge we are not the only family to be affected by the events, our prayers and thoughts are with all people affected.

"We will not be making any further comments on this tragedy and ask everyone, especially the media, to give us the privacy we need to grieve away from the public eye."

"He was so energetic, funny and cheeky, always bringing a smile to our faces" - family statement

The Foreign Office (FCO) is working to provide support to the Cadman family, who moved from Kent to Australia three years ago.

Foreign secretary Boris Johnson described Julian's death as "a tragedy".

I send my sincerest sympathies to the family of Julian Cadman and all those who loved him," he added.

"The FCO, our Australian colleagues and the Spanish authorities continue to do all we can to support his family at this deeply distressing time."

An FCO spokesman added: "We are assisting the family of an Australian-British child who was killed in the Barcelona terrorist attack.

"His family have our deepest sympathies at this very difficult time.

"Our staff are doing all they can to support them, working with our Australian colleagues and the Spanish authorities."

Thirteen people were killed and more than 100 injured when an IS extremist targeted the bustling pedestrianized street which cuts through the Catalonian city and attracts thousands of tourists every day.