The heartbroken family of a Queenborough primary school pupil who died after a short illness have paid tribute to their karate-loving son.

Tyreece Charles Duggan, aged seven, died at St George's Hospital in London.

His mother, Zoey Smith, 27, and father, Paul Duggan, 28, of Manor Road, Queenborough, said: “Ty loved school and had 100% attendance before he fell ill.

“He went to Queenborough School and Nursery, which he was very proud of as it recently got rated as outstanding by Ofsted.

“He did karate at Jo’Li Marshall Arts gym in Sheerness. He got a brown belt in that, which he was also very proud of.

“Tyreece become ill at the beginning of July and was later diagnosed with cancer.

"He was then transferred to St George’s where he fought with more bravery than his age should have afforded.

“Unfortunately his fight ended on August 12 when he sadly passed away with us at his side.

“We love and miss him so much.

"He was transferred to St George's where he fought with more bravery than his age should have afforded" - mum Zoey Smith

“We’d like to thank all our friends and family for their support through this difficult time.”

Tyreece’s nine-year-old sister, Hope, said: “He was funny. He loved karate and he made lots of jokes that didn’t make sense.”

Barbara Conroy, head at Queenborough School and Nursery, said: “Tyreece was a special little man who touched the hearts of everyone he met.

“He was a wonderful member of our school community who could brighten up anybody’s day with his smile.

“He loved school and was extremely popular with all staff and pupils.

“Tyreece will be greatly missed by everybody here and our thoughts are with Zoey, Paul and Hope at this sad time.”

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, August 29.

The service will be at Bobbing crematorium at noon and then at Queenborough Social Club in North Road.

Miss Smith said: “Everyone who knew him is welcome.”

Family flowers only. Donations, if wished, to the Ronald McDonald house in Tooting, London, via Havill Funeral Directors, Queenborough Road, Halfway.