The family of a nine-year-old boy who died after apparently being struck by lightning have paid tribute to their “beautiful boy”, saying “he was our everything”.

Jordan Banks is thought to have died after being struck by lightning on a football field in Blackpool. Police officers were called shortly after 5pm on Tuesday to fields near to School Road after reports a child had been injured.

Emergency services attended and the boy was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

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.”

Friends have also paid tribute to Jordan and flowers and gifts have been left at the scene of the incident.

Jordan’s best friend CJ Campbell told Sky News: “I started crying straight away as soon as I heard [the news] because he is my very best friend in my class at school.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

“I was so shocked, you wouldn’t expect to hear that news.”

He left flowers and a football with a message written on it in memory his friend.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, Jordan’s team Clifton Rangers Junior Football Club said: “It is with great sadness and a very heavy heart we announce that the tragic incident yesterday involved one of our own players.

“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.”

The club said they would be working to support those with Jordan at the time of the incident and his family.

The statement finished with: “Fly high young man, sleep tight and god bless.”

Before he died Jordan was raising money for mental health services in honour of his uncle who took his own life in 2018.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

He raised £2,500 by running 30 miles in 10 days.

His efforts attracted the attention of his hero Liverpool footballer James Milner, who sent him a video congratulating him on his “incredible” work.

In the clip, Milner said: “Just remember you never walk alone, all the boys are behind you… well done bud you should be very proud.”

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

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.”

Road closures in place following the incident have now been lifted.

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

Related posts:

COVID vaccines have prevented 10,400 deaths in older adults, Public Health England says PM praises Prince Philip’s ‘steadfast support’ for Queen as tributes paid to duke 29 men charged over alleged child sexual exploitation of female victim in West Yorkshire Mixing coronavirus vaccines increases side effects but is safe, new study shows UK records another 7,742 COVID cases and three deaths ahead of roadmap announcement Family of investigator killed with axe hope for answers as long-awaited report due Fresh arrest made over social media racist abuse of England footballers England star Jadon Sancho says ‘hate will never win’ as he hits back at online racist abuse Serial killer Stephen Port’s first victim may have been dead for more than a day before being found, inquest hears Restaurants, bars and festivals helped economy pick up in August after rules eased UK records 40,375 new COVID cases and 145 deaths Harry Kane breaks competitive goal scoring record for England after perfect hat-trick