TRIBUTES have been paid to a schoolboy who has died following his battle with cancer.

Jake Whiteside, 16, from Rayne, was a Notley High School pupil.

The Year 11 was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year and the school announced he died yesterday.

He died peacefully at home, and not in pain.

In a statement on the school's website, it said: "Lots of us knew Jake very well and he was an extremely popular student, loved by both students and staff.

"This was clearly shown by the amount raised for ‘Wipe Away Those Tears’ at the recent head shave event by Jake’s close friends that many students attended.

"Many will have known him for his great sense of humour and fun ways.

"There will be many members of staff and students who are deeply affected by this great loss and we need to support each other at this time."

The school is offering support for anyone who needs it today.

They said: "Jake will be hugely missed by his family, friends and teachers and will be remembered very fondly by all who knew him.

"Our love, thoughts and prayers are with Jake’s family and friends at this very difficult time."

Jake's football club, Great Notley FC, called him 'popular'.

In a statement they said: "Jake previously played for the U16 Wolves and was part of the 2014/15 squad who reached the League Cup Final and won promotion that season.

"He was a very popular team member and will be missed by all of his teammates as well as other players in his age group who knew him through school."