The family of a Bolton schoolboy found hanged this week have described him as having a ‘heart of gold’.
James Jones, 15, was found hanged in an area near to Ellen Grove in Salford at around 7.40pm on Monday.
The Harper Green High School pupil, who had been due to start sitting his GCSEs later this month, had left a note saying he was ‘fed up’ with life.
In a statement released by Greater Manchester Police, his family said: “He truly had a heart of gold. He was a hard-working, polite, conscientious boy who always did well at school.
“James was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and uncle.”
There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and the case has been passed to the coroner.
James was a keen windsurfer and sailor who had spent the last three summers at Salford Quays attaining his level 3 in sailing.
“James loved family holiday’s abroad, surfing and scuba diving with his father and brothers or just simply digging channels in the sand as the tide came in.”
James was found in a wooded area of a country park after failing to show up for lessons on the first day of the summer term.
Headmaster Andrew Foster said: “James’s death is completely out of the blue. We are mystified. As far as we are aware, he had no problems at school and was a model pupil.
“He didn’t present us with any issues as regards his behaviour or pastoral needs, which makes it all the more mystifying. It comes as a complete shock.”
James was due to sit his GCSE’s later this month at Harper Green High School in Farnworth, near Bolton.
He had a keen interest in chess and played avidly with a close group of friends.
Rob Gordon, who was walking his dog when he discovered the body, said his son was good friends with James.
Mr Gordon, 36, said: ”I went down to the woods and came across what I now know was James. I called my neighbour. I felt very shocked.
”My son was very good friends with him. Every time I have seen James, he has come across as a fun, easygoing kid.”
In a tribute to James, his family said: “Goodnight and god bless son. Continue to shine as bright as you have always done.
“You were a bright boy, a happy little chap, who was loved by all.
“You will always be here in the hearts of your family. Sleep tight our little angel, love and big kisses Mum & Dad, Ashleigh, Paul, Michael, & Olivia xxxxxx.”
