'He was the sunshine of my life'

Photo: Kirsty Rigg

Tragedy: 13-year-old Sam Riley was found hanged on Friday

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The heartbroken parents of a teenager who was found hanged have paid tribute to their “angel”

Sam Riley was just 13 when he was found at his family home in Greave on Friday.

Debbie and Steven Riley described their son as a “happy go lucky” boy who had many friends and whose loving nature was liked by many.

They say his death has left a question mark on the hearts of those who knew him.

Sam, who was in year 8 at Oulder Hill School, was a passionate Liverpool FC fan, and his fellow classmates have signed a football shirt to remember him by.

Mum Debbie said she will never forget the “sunshine of her life”.

She added: “He was my beautiful boy. So handsome and popular, he had so many friends. I just can’t take it in that he has gone.

“I don’t think he realised just how loved he was. There have been literally hundreds of tributes come through for him from all his friends, who are as shocked as us.”

Sam’s dad, Steve, has his son’s name tattooed on his back, which has become a personal tribute to him. He said: “I had this done five years ago, and I always told him that it showed how much he meant to me”.

“He was a special boy and he’ll be missed forever”.

“I’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to the friends and family members who have shown us so much support, all the cards and flowers have been coming in all weekend, people have been here every day to support us.

“It is good to know there are so many people who care at this horrible time”.