Head teacher pays tribute to 'gorgeous, happy' boy Archie York after Benwell explosion tragedy
by Sophie Doughty · ChronicleLiveArchie York's head teacher has today paid tribute to the "gorgeous, happy" boy.
The seven-year-old was one of two people to die when a huge explosion ripped through homes, in Benwell, Newcastle, a week ago. Jason Laws, who was in his 30s, also lost his life in the blast, on Violet Closet. Archie had been a pupil at Benwell's Bridgewater Primary School.
And today his head teacher has paid tribute to the little boy as she told of the school's devastation.
Sam Robson said: "We are deeply saddened by the news that one of our children, Archie York, was the young boy who tragically lost his life following the incident in Benwell in the early hours of last Wednesday morning. Our thoughts and love are with all his family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.
"Archie was a gorgeous, happy, much loved little boy he will be sadly missed by us all at Bridgewater Primary."
And Ms Robson said the school was doing all it could to support pupils and families affected by the tragedy.
She added: "We know the impact of Archie’s death will be affecting many of our children, their families, and the wider community. We are committed to providing a supportive environment during this challenging time and we would like to assure families that support is available for those who need it and if any member of our school community would like to speak with us privately, please contact the school office."
Archie's heartbroken parents Katherine Errington and Robbie York yesterday paid tribute to their son as they told of their devastation.
In a statement they said: “Archie was not only our son but our best friend. He lit up every room he went in, whether that was with his cheeky smile he was known for or some of his cheeky words. We are so broken as a family but Archie will live on in his baby brother Finley who is the spitting image of him. He might have been small but he had a heart of gold, everyone loved him. We would also like to thank everyone who shared their love with Archie at his balloon release, everyone did him proud.
“As a whole we are still wanting to wake up from this nightmare but Archie knows he will be in our hearts forever and always. We love you Archie York."
What caused the explosion, which happened at around 1am last Wednesday, is still being investigated, and police say the area is expected to be cordoned off for some time.
Supt Darren Adams, of Northumbria Police, said: "The investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing, with cordons expected to remain in place for some time. Police are working alongside colleagues from a range of agencies, including Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
“The investigation into this tragedy is ongoing and due to the level of damage which has been caused this is likely to take some time. "We are committed to providing answers to what has happened. We would ask that while the investigation is being carried out that people avoid speculation both online and in the community. We again thank people for their continued support and cooperation at this time.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Northumbria Police on 101 quoting log number NP-20241016-0028.
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