Tributes to Shrewsbury boy James Renshaw

A 16-year-old boy has been found dead near a Shrewsbury pool, police said today.

James Renshaw, of Langholm Drive, Telford Estate, was found by police close to Radbrook Pool on Saturday.

His death is not being treated at this stage as suspicious.

His devastated family today paid tribute to him, describing him as a "wonderful" and "special" boy.

Rachel Ball, a close family friend, today released a statement on behalf of the family.

She said: "The family are suffering from immense shock and distress. James will leave such a massive hole which will not be filled.

"He was a wonderful lad, he was popular and very special. He made a difference to many people's lives and hundreds of messages are being sent in which the family are taking comfort from."

Hilary Burke, headteacher of Meole Brace School, where James was a pupil between 2005 and 2010, today said: "He had lots of friends here in the school and his family are very much part of our community so our thoughts and prayers are very much with them at this sad time."

James's elder brother Kevin's football team Ellesmere Rangers postponed their game on Saturday as a mark of respect to the family.

Police today said a post-mortem and inquest was due to be opened this week.