A school has paid tribute to their "talented and enthusiastic" basketball player who died last week after being hit by a minibus.

Eleven-year-old Northfleet Technology College pupil Szymon passed away in hospital after suffering multiple injuries.

The incident happened in Vale Road, Northfleet, close to the junction with Colyer Road and Park Avenue at around 8.25am last Wednesday as the youngster walked to school.

A college spokesman said today: "The whole school was shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic incident involving one our students on his journey to school.

"Szymon had made a fantastic start at NTC; he was working hard to achieve his grades and had made some really good friends.

"Szymon loved the game of basketball and was a very talented and enthusiastic player.

"He had a bright future in the sport and his coaches looked forward to him playing in our sixth-form academy team.

"He will be remembered for his smile, which lit up the classroom and was especially wide after scoring a basket and celebrating with his friends.

"Our thoughts are with Szymon’s family and his many friends, both in and out of school, at this terribly sad time.

"The school has arranged for support for students and staff who have been deeply affected by this tragic event and will continue to work with the students so that they develop their awareness of keeping themselves and others safe close to roads."

Szymon's surname has not been released.

Tributes have since been laid on the pavement in Vale Road near the junction with Colyer Road.

They included flowers, candles and tea lights, basketballs and cards with messages such as "you will always be remembered" and "you are in a better place now".

Two basketballs have also been transcribed with R.I.P and "you were the best at ball".

Messages have been left by friends and pupils, the sixth-form committee team, parents from nearby Shears Green Junior School and from The Crown pub in Perry Street.

One read: "R.I.P little man. I know I've never met you but you have touched the heart of every parent."

Another said: "RIP Szymon. I'll miss you mate. I hope you're still playing basketball in heaven."

A petition has since been launched by another parent to campaign for a lollipop man at the school's zebra crossing to keep the children safe.

Last week, a teenager – who was also a pedestrian – from the Gravesend area was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and after being quizzed by police was released on bail until February 17.

The force is still appealing for witnesses following the fatal collision close to the junction with Colyer Road and Park Avenue involving the youngster and a white Mercedes Sprinter minibus.

Officers and ambulance crews, including the air ambulance went to the scene at 8.25am last Wednesday.

The area was cordoned off by police while paramedics treated the youngster.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or who saw either the child or vehicle in the moments leading up to it, is urged to contact police on 01622 798538 quoting reference 02-0167.

Drivers are also asked to check dashcams for any footage which may assist the investigation. There is also a live link page where witnesses can get in touch directly with the police. Click here to find it.