A 10-YEAR-old boy who died in hospital yesterday "brought a smile" to everyone who knew him, his school said.
Shane Nicholl, a P7 pupil at St Dallan's Primary School in Warrenpoint, Co Down, died in Daisy Hill Hospital in Newry.
Police are examining the circumstances of the sudden death, but it is not believed to be suspicious.
Shane lived in Warrenpoint with his parents Mark and Claire and siblings Conor, Jamie and Callum.
In a statement, St Dallan's said they were heart-broken by his sudden passing.
"We, the principal, staff, board of governors, children, parents and wider community of St Dallan's Primary School, Warrenpoint are shocked and saddened by the sudden and heart breaking loss of Shane, our precious Primary 7 child.
"His endearing personality and sense of humour brought a smile to all of us who knew him. May his gentle, young soul rest in peace."
Warrenpoint GAA also extended their sympathies to the Nicholl family.
Shane's maternal grandfather Hubert Shannon is a senior committee member and former chairman of the club.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Shannon and Nicholl families at this very sad and tragic time," the club said.
SDLP South Down MLA Karen McKevitt said she was stunned to learn of Shane's death.
"The death of a child is a tragedy for any community. Just last week little Ella Trainor was buried after a crash on the Hilltown Road and on Wednesday night a six-year-old boy was knocked down and killed in Newtownards.
"My sympathies are with Shane's family and friends."
Funeral details are to be announced later.
