Bullies blamed for pupil's death

Pupils using a website set up in tribute to a 12-year-old boy found hanged at his home are blaming school bullies for his death.

Nathan Jones, of Romford, was found by his family on 7 April. He had been a pupil for two years at King's Wood School, in Harold Hill, Essex.

His fellow pupils created a website to mourn Nathan and to attack bullying.

Geoff Starns, of Havering Children Services, said he could not confirm if Nathan had been a victim of bullying.

'Selfish' people

Pupils have added their comments to a forum which also contains links to anti-bullying groups.

One message reads: "You made a young boy take his own life, just for fun."

It adds: "Selfish unhearted people did this to Nathan and now no-one's life will ever be the same."

Our thoughts are with the family and those who were close to Nathan at this sad time Councillor Starns

Another posting in text language reads: "Y Babe? Y u let them get the best of u?"

Mr Starns said: "The death of Nathan is tragic. The full facts are still being ascertained and the police have not yet concluded their enquiries.

"Our thoughts are with the family and those who were close to Nathan at this sad time."

A council spokesman said it would not be helpful to speculate on the causes of this tragedy, but said the borough had a clear anti-bullying policy.

"Havering Council has a very clear commitment to stamping out bullying and its Behaviour Support Plan sets out advice to schools on how they might achieve this.

"Schools are also supported by the council's education psychology and behaviour support service and education welfare officers that help individuals affected by bullying."

Nathan had been active in raising money for the Asian tsunami appeal, acted in school plays and was a school council representative.

A post mortem examination confirmed the boy died as a result of hanging and police said there were no suspicious circumstances.

A full inquest is due to take place at Romford Coroner's Court.