A MUM has paid tribute to her “shining light” Quinlan, a year after he was swept out to sea.

Brave 13-year-old Quinlan Pringle was on a day trip with his family in Boulogne, in France, when the tragedy happened.

Quinlan, from Colchester, was with his brothers, aged 11 and nine, on a packed beach.

The two younger boys were swept from the water’s edge as they played there.

Quinlan, who had gone to hurry them back, was trying to save them when he was also swept away.

His brothers were saved, but Quinlan died. His body was not found until a week later.

Quinlan went to Philip Morant School and College in Colchester and was due to begin Year 9.

His mum, Mena, wrote a loving tribute to her son on the anniversary of his death.

She said: “The day you were born, the sun came out. The world was richer, the joy profound.

“A gift of life that touched everyone you met and hopes and dreams and love reigned.

“The day you died, a light went out. The world was dimmer, the sadness loud.

“A vacuum filled with pain and regret, dead dreams and loss, but love remained.

“We survived the timelessness of the grieving heart.

“Missing you with memories and anguish always around.

“Who you were and what you did, we will never forget, we’ll carry your face and our love for you with us ‘til the end.”

Quinlan was loved by everyone he met, as he lived by finding hope in the toughest of times.

He had a book of dreams in which he wrote down everything he wanted to achieve.

In his book, he said: “My dream is to be a scientist because science is my favourite subject, to get the job as a scientist I will have science lessons all the time.

“I would like to be a policeman so I can fight evil and protect the innocent and good.

“I would like to be a chef so I can make different foods.

“I would like to be an artist so I can make different pictures and paintings.”

More than anything, he wanted to be a loving son and brother.

The day Quinlan died, he was wearing the same outfit as his dad, Alan.

Alan said: “One year without you son has not lessened my sadness.

“At times it is worse, I catch myself opposingly smiling and crying. Smiling when I hear something or see something that I know would make you laugh and grin in that infectious way of yours. Crying when I realise I will never see you here again.

“I miss you son, more than ever.”

A family service was due to be held today at Colchester Crematorium in Mersea Road.

His family will lay flowers for him and remember him as the inspiration he always was.

Quinlan also has a memorial bench and plaque at Gosbecks Primary School, where he attended.

He wrote an inspirational message which has been pinned up on the wall of the school.

Quinlan said: “No matter how hard something is, persevere and find a new way.”

THE brothers of inspirational teenager Quinlan Pringle have said they will always miss his kind and helpful nature.

A memorial service was held a year to the day Quinlan died, and in a tribute his brothers, Vian and Darin, called him the “kindest brother”.

Darin, who is 12, said: “My brother was kinder than most and he made us laugh all the time.

“He cared for all of us and sometimes cooked for us, he was always there for us.

“He was trustworthy and comforting, he took charge and helped us with our homework.

“He helped me with the guitar and Vian with the piano but most importantly he loved us all and we love him.

I miss him, I love him and he will always be my big brother, always.”

The family spent a lot of time together and enjoyed going on holidays.

Quinlan was an inspiration to his siblings and they all saw him as a role model.

Vian, who is 10, said Quinlan was his favourite brother.

He said: “Unique and talented, inspiring everyone, nurturer and carer, legend forever. Always in our hearts, never forget you.”

His mum, Mena, said Quinlan inspired everyone to achieve their dreams.

She said: “In Quinlan’s memory I ask that we are not afraid to live and dream and when we dream, not to limit our dreams to one thing.”