by Lynn Cox

A star student, who was due to get an award for achievement next month, has died suddenly at the age of 18.

Darryl Bell, a former pupil at the Hundred of Hoo School, suffered a brain haemorrhage and passed away on Sunday.

Darryl, who had flourished in the sixth form, left school in July but recently found out he would be getting the Pete Abnett Sixth Form Shield for being the most improved student.

He would have collected his award at the school’s senior awards evening on Thursday, December 10.

It is believed his parents will now pick up this award on his behalf.

Darryl, of Cooling Road, Frindsbury, carried a donor card and his organs have been donated to people awaiting transplants.

He had many friends who are still students at the school, achieved a double distinction in his BTEC national certificate in art and design and a C grade in his A-level ICT.

He had taken part in many school activities and enjoyed the sixth form summer ball which was held at Priestfield in June.

He had many interests but he particularly enjoyed playing the guitar and attending music festivals.

A spokesman for the education authority Medway Council, said: “Darryl felt very strongly about organ donation, and carried a donor card with him.

“Senior staff at the school are remaining in close contact with his family and counsellors are on hand to support any student in the school who may have been affected by Darryl’s death.”

Dr Gary Holden, executive principal at the school, added: “All of us at Hundred of Hoo extend our sincere condolences to Darryl’s family at this very sad time.”

Darryl wanted to be a tattoo artist and enjoyed designing his own tattoos, one of which he had tattooed on his arm.

For a full tribute from Darryl's parents see Monday's Medway Messenger.