A BELFAST teenager who died suddenly from an asthma attack was "kind and caring" his school said.
Jack Whyte, a 14-year-old Year 11 pupil at St Patrick's College, Bearnageeha, in north Belfast, died this morning.
The school posted a tribute to him on its Facebook page, saying people at St Patrick's had been left "devastated" by the news.
"Jack was a bright, outgoing student, kind and caring," the tribute read.
"He was a pleasure to teach. A 'star' in our eyes. He was involved in many aspects of College life – drama, music and the student council. He always had a smile for everyone he met.
"He will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by everyone who knew him. It will take us some time as a school community to come to terms with this. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jack’s family and friends at this very sad time in their lives. Rest in peace Jack."
Jack was closely involved in dance and drama.
Dance group DU Dance, of which Jack was a member, said his mother Kathy was with him when he suffered the fatal attack.
"We are all shocked and extremely upset at this news," the group said.
"Our sincere sympathy goes out to Jack’s family, particularly his mother who was with him at the time."
Friends of the teenager and his family posted their tributes.
People described Jack as an "absolute gentleman" and an "amazing kid".
New Lodge Arts said they were "completely heartbroken" by Jack's death.
The group held a drop-in support evening in the 174 Trust/Duncairn Art Centre for Jack's friends.
"Thoughts and prayers are with Jack's family," the group said on Facebook.
Theatre group Prime Cut productions, who worked with the teenager on multi-arts collaboration The Secret City, extended their condolences to his family.
"An incredible talent. A fantastic young man. You burned brightly and bravely," the group said.
Jack is survived by his parents Kathy and Damien, sister Leona and niece Aoife.
