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Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys remembers 17-year-old Jude McGill

09:46, 05 September 2019

updated: 10:45, 05 September 2019

A secondary school has paid tribute to a supportive and highly valued former pupil.

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys said it was looking at the best way to celebrate the life of 17-year-old Jude McGill.

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys pupil Jude McGill passed away in July (16159236)
Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys pupil Jude McGill passed away in July (16159236)

Amanda Simpson, headteacher at the St John's Road school, said: "Our staff, students and parents are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the death of Jude McGill and our thoughts are with his family and friends.

"Jude was a highly valued member of the school community, a supportive friend to his peers, a committed student and known by all for his good humour and positive outlook.

"We appreciate this has been a difficult time for some of our students who knew Jude and over the summer holidays we ensured specialist support was available to anyone who needed it.

"As a school, we are working with the students and family to find the most fitting way to commemorate Jude as part of our school community."

Thousands of pounds has been raised in Jude's memory since he passed away in July.

"As a school, we are working with the students and family to find the most fitting way to commemorate Jude as part of our school community..." Amanda Simpson

Friends described Jude as "an inspiration to all" and "one of the sweetest and most fun boys you could meet" on a fundraising page.

Jude's great grandmother Sylvia also donated, writing: "Remembering my darling Great Grandson Jude. With much love from Great Grandma Sylvia and uncle Graham and aunty Cherry."

So far more £1,935 has been raised in the teenager's memory.

The money will be donated to Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex and King's College Hospital Charity.

The cause of Jude's death is currently unknown and Kent's coroner's service was unaware of whether a file was being prepared.

A funeral for the Tunbridge Wells teen was held at St Thomas' Church on Monday, August 19 in Groombridge.

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells.

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