Tributes to St Richard's student

Graham and Margaret Ingamells talked about their much-moved son and spoke of the tributes paid to him.

And they said the young lad would be remembered by all for his big smile.

The couple said they hoped everyone would share their sadness and also celebrate his life by attending his funeral next Friday (February 27) at Boundaries at The Ridge, St Leonards, at 11am. They say everyone is welcome to attend and there will be a private burial afterwards.

Joshua is thought to have breathed in deadly carbon monoxide fumes which had leaked into his bedroom from the central heating boiler located directly below the family's Fairlight Road home. His father and 10-year-old sister escaped because their rooms were further away.

His parents told the Observer that they had been overwhelmed by the love and support from their family, their church pastors Glenn and Cathy Khan at Christian Outreach Centre, Marina; St Richard's Catholic College, local churches and friends.

The couple said: "Joshua was a joy and delight to us and everyone who knew him. He was a loved and most precious son, much loved brother and friend to many. It is impossible to explain just how special he was. He was strong, gentle and sensitive with a quiet faith and love for God as well as a love for life. He had such a sense of humour and fun."

"In the 12 years that Joshua was with us he lived life to the full and enjoyed many hobbies including sailing, boats, 4 by 4'ing, quad and motorbike riding with friends.

"Joshua would have been delighted at the birth of a little daughter, Gabriella May, to his beloved sister Becky and brother-in-law Dave this week."

The couple also wanted to thank the emergency services that helped them.

Miss Doreen Cronin, of St Richard's School, said: "In a very short time Josh made an impact due to his friendly nature and his ability to make so many smile. You couldn't ask for any greater gifts from a child than what Joshua offered by just being himself."

Joshua's parents said flowers from close family and friends and others if they wish can be sent to Towners Funeral Directors, Norman Road, St Leonards, but otherwise donations in memory of Joshua can go to either St Richards School or COC (Josh's youth group at COC Marina, St Leonards) which can also be sent to Towners or given at the funeral.

The donations will be put towards things that Josh would have liked his friends to enjoy in his memory.