A FATHER has paid a heartbreaking tribute to his "beautiful and smiley" son who has died aged 15. 

Noah, from Dedham, had become known for his artwork which helped raise £250,000 for the Colchester and Ipswich Charity. 

Noah, who was known by his nickname Background Bob, fundraised to help the hospital trust which treated him. 

The teenager had hydrocephalus, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy. 

Noah's dad Nathan Jones shared a tribute to his “beautiful, fun loving and smiley boy” after his death on Monday afternoon. 

He said: “This is a post that we thought we’d never have to write, but in reality knew we were going to have to.

“We are heartbroken to let you all know that Noah sadly passed away yesterday afternoon. He left us peacefully and free from pain, with us by his side holding his hands.

“Our beautiful, fun loving smiley boy knew nothing but love and happiness. Please do not be sad, please celebrate his positive nature. Smile more, embrace happiness……………. Be more Bob.”

"It has been extremely special sharing our little legend with you all.

"You’ve all helped produce so many special moments and memories over the last three years. Moments we will cherish forever. He had a blast….made his mark….and we are so proud of him.

“Rest easy our sweet boy”

In May 2020, during the first Covid-19 lockdown, Noah then aged 11, began to paint on carboard to pass the time.

Gazette:

After seeing how much Noah enjoyed using a paint brush, Nathan asked artists on social media to finish the pictures Noah had started at their home in Dedham.

The worldwide online reaction was so popular that it resulted in 240 unique images co-created by Noah being exhibited at Firstsite in 2020, followed by more than 700 artists coming forward for the returning exhibition in 2021.

Noah’s third exhibition at Firstsite starting in April, 2023 had support from celebrities like Ed Sheeran, Joe Lycett and Grayson Perry, who all used Background Bob’s signature palette of bright colours to start their own paintings.