A WIRRAL community is in mourning following the sudden death of a popular and well-loved pupil.

Brandon Heggarty, a Year Nine student at Woodchurch High School, passed away on Thursday.

A post-mortem is due to take place and an inquest expected to open later this week.

In a letter to parents headteacher Rebekah Phillips described Brandon as a "happy, popular and well-loved member of our Woodchurch family."

Ms Phillips told the Globe this morning: "This is a very difficult and upsetting time for all of us at Woodchurch High.

"This news has had a devastating impact on our whole school, and our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family.

Ms Phillips added: "As a school, we will support all in our community who will be affected by this tragic news, providing counselling and the opportunity to talk about the tragic events with the school's Chaplaincy Team and other experienced and suitably trained staff."

Brandon's mother, Lyndsey Ashcroft said: "I want to thank everybody for all their support and generosity.

"It means the world to me at this horrible time."

Family friend Gemma Louise Dunn has set up a gofundme campaign to help pay towards Brandon's funeral and give him 'the best send off'.

Gemma told the Globe: "I would like to say that on behalf of the community this has devastated everybody.

"Brandon was a good kid, had the biggest smile and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

"My heart goes out to Lyndsey and all of Brandon's family and friends."

To donate to the fundraising campaign, visit https://www.gofundme.com/brandons-sendoff