The headteacher of a school hit by tragedy has issued a heartfelt thank-you to the community for its "overwhelming support".

John Watts said the amount of help, kindness and sympathy Heathlands Church of England Primary School had received was "a great comfort".

Eleven-year-old Daniel Mullinger, from Stanway, died on a school trip last Tuesday in Norfolk, after being hit by a falling tree branch.

Three other pupils from the West Bergholt school were injured in the same accident.

Harry Bowen, 11, is in London's Great Ormond Street Hospital, where his condition is improving.

Mr Watts told the Gazette: "We have had so many messages of help and support, and I want to thank everybody within the local community as well as outside.

"We have had letters from schools all over Colchester and all over the country, some who have been in a similar situation.

"It's been a great comfort, we really do appreciate what has been done."

  • Daniel's funeral is taking place tomorrow at 11.30am, at St Mary's Church in West Bergholt. As a mark of respect to the family the school, in New Church Road, will be closed all day.