Schoolboy dies from suspected meningitis

The boy, believed to be a 10-years-old, was a pupil at Clifton Primary School in St Annes and died over the weekend.

His schoolmates and parents were told about his death earlier on Monday.

Rachel Legge, headteacher, said: “We are incredibly saddened by the death of one our pupils.

“Our thoughts are with the family and we have written to parents to let them know how we are supporting the children through this very difficult time.”

Letters were sent to parents on Monday informing them of the boy’s death, with an accompanying notice of advice from Health England

While the cause of the boy’s death has not yet been confirmed, it is suspected to be meningitis, The Gazette understands.

School governors Kevan Waby and Ann DeRizzio did not wish to comment tonight.

The school is set to open as normal on Tuesday.

Wellwishers took to social media to express their sadness.

Former Clifton Kindergarten teacher Wendy Mulela posted on Facebook: “Received some very tragic news today that one of my previous nursery pupils passed away last night.

“Thoughts with his family at this devastating time.”