Memorial for boy who died caving

Joe went missing as his party made their way out of the cave system

A memorial to a "star pupil" who died while on a caving holiday last year has been unveiled at his school.

It is thought Joe Lister, 14, became trapped by rising water at Manchester Hole in Upper Nidderdale, North Yorkshire, on 14 November.

He was on an outdoor education course with Tadcaster Grammar School to the council-run Bewerley Park when he died.

Joe's sister Laura sang a song composed in her brother's memory, called Joe Blues, at the unveiling ceremony.

The song was written by Joe's friend Ben Richards, 13, with help from Laura.

After performing the song, Laura said: "I know what people thought of him and how amazing he was to me and everybody else.

The memorial is engraved with a poem written by a school friend

"It's a good way of remembering him and now he's always going to be there. He can never be taken away."

The memorial consists of a central rock of Yorkshire limestone, capped by a pure granite sphere and surrounded by 10 stone stools, engraved with the letters of Joe's name and the year of his death.

The central stone of the sculpture is engraved with a poem written by Joe's school friend Tom Lendill.

Joe's headteacher, Geoff Mitchell, said the granite ball reflected the teenager's love of football and light "radiated out" from the sculpture each time the sun's rays hit it.

"This was his personality," Mr Mitchell said.

"He was a very significant member of our community and he had that sense of impact on us.

"I don't think words can describe the pain the school experienced in November.

"We wanted something that would be long-lasting and a place where students could reflect on him which would give strength and support to the school, and be a place for the future."