'Our brightest star’: Heartbroken family pays tribute to nine-year-old son killed in lightning strike

The family of a nine-year-old boy who died after being struck by lightning have described him as their “brightest star”.

Jordan Banks was playing at Spirit of Youth Junior Football Club in Blackpool, Lancashire, on Tuesday evening when the incident happened.

The youngster was rushed to hospital from Common Edge Playing Fields shortly after 5pm with "serious injuries" and died a short time later, Blackpool Police confirmed.

Officers believe he was struck by lightning, although inquiries are still ongoing.

In a statement, Jordan’s family said: “Yesterday our worlds stopped. We lost the brightest star our beautiful boy Jordan.

“His laugh, that infectious smile, golden curls, he was our everything.

“Wise beyond his years, caring, considerate, generous and so loving.

“Our love is endless. Goodnight beautiful boy.

“We thank you all for your kind words and support but as a family ask that you respect our wishes and privacy.”

Heartfelt tributes including flowers, football shirts and messages have been left at the playing field, while tributes have also poured in across social media.

Spirit of Youth JFC said in a statement: "It is with deepest regret that we have to report the news that the young boy who was struck by lightning earlier this evening has sadly passed away.

"The tragic incident happened on our home ground at Common Edge Playing Fields but it was not during a club training session.

"As a club, we are heartbroken and we offer our deepest condolences to the boy’s family.

"Spirit of Youth is a family and we are entrenched in the local community, and we will give whatever support is required to both the family and to those that were with him at the time."

Jordan, one of three children, was a pupil at Stanley Primary School in Blackpool.

Earlier this year the Liverpool FC fan received a special message from one of his favourite players, James Milner, after running a marathon in honour of a close relative who took his own life in 2018.

Clifton Rangers Junior Football Club under-9s, who Jordan played for, described him as "an inspiration to everyone that he met".

A spokesperson for Clifton Rangers JFC said: "Jordan of our U9 Bees, tragically passed away yesterday evening doing what he loved.

"Jordan was a shining light and an inspiration to everyone that he met. A strong, determined and courageous young man, who will be missed by everyone.

"The world has truly lost an extraordinary young man, who had done so much good in his community."

Detective Superintendent Nick Connaughton of Lancashire Police said: “This is a truly devastating incident and our thoughts are wholeheartedly with the family and friends of the young boy, who has passed away, at this very sad and distressing time.”

Anybody with information about the incident, or who witnessed it and has not yet spoken to police, is asked to get in touch on 101, quoting log 1169 of 11 May.

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