A teenager who died after a road crash was hailed as "a true ambassador for his school" by his headmaster.

In a heartfelt tribute, Stuart Francis said 18-year-old James Piggott represented all that was best about Colchester Royal Grammar School.

James, of Drum Field, Stratford St Mary, died on Saturday from head injuries sustained in an accident in Colchester early on New Year's Day.

He was involved in a collision with a Vauxhall Cavalier as he crossed Lexden Road, near Essex County Hospital, after a night out with friends.

An outstanding scholar, he had been offered a place at Merton College, Oxford, to read philosophy, politics and economics.

Mr Francis said: "James was a young man with a brilliant future, who was outstanding both in academic ability and personal qualities."

Having performed exceptionally well in GCSEs, he was expected to excel in his maths, economics, Latin, history and general studies A-levels.

Last summer he won the year 12 Latin prize, and the previous year was awarded the year head's prize for all-round contributions to school life.

"He had blossomed in the sixth form," said Mr Francis. "He was a leading light in the senior debating society, which he had helped to re-establish.

"He had a wide circle of friends and was popular with and respected by his teachers and his peers alike."

James loved discussion, debate and current affairs and had taken part in the school's mock election.

He had been chairman and personnel director of a Young Enterprise Company, achieving a distinction in the exam. He had also been elected as his form's representative on the sixth form council.

In school rugby and cricket he was "a completely dependable team member" committed to helping his team-mates.

"He had so much to offer and will continue to be a source of inspiration to all who knew him" said Mr Francis.

His death had come as a devastating shock to students and staff, and their thoughts were with his parents, John and Lynette, and sister Laura.

James will be buried in Stratford St Mary's churchyard tomorrow. His family have asked that any donations should be made payable to the school.

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