TRIBUTES have been paid to an 11-year-old Ryedale boy who was found dead in his bedroom.

Peter Kevin Hesp died suddenly at his home in Pickering on Sunday.

An inquest has been opened for identification purposes and adjourned to a later date. Police are not investigating.

His parents, Richard and Paula, were too upset to talk to the Evening Press, but Peter's teacher at Pickering County Junior School, Sally Mintoft, has paid a moving tribute.

She said the youngster had had a huge impact on both staff and pupils. "Every child in his year smiles as they remember Peter," she said.

"He was a sociable boy who had many friends.

"He seemed to have the ability to be everyone's friend as his warm and generous personality meant that he would do all he could to help everybody, including staff."

Miss Mintoft said Peter had enjoyed science, maths and computing at school and wanted to work in medicine when he was older. His favourite subject was PE and Games.

"If a sports practice was arranged, Peter would be there giving his best and buzzing with enthusiasm, whatever the weather or the time," Miss Mintoft said. "He became a skilled cricket and rounders player. As a Manchester United fan he was also a keen footballer.

"Peter had a vivid imagination and could always invent an interesting playground game. He also enjoyed less energetic pastimes, like playing with his Yu-gi-oh cards. His classmates said he had the most impressive collection in school."

Peter was a big Harry Potter fan and also enjoyed playing computer games, riding on his bike and scooter and "chatting about his latest adventures".

Miss Mintoft said. "Every child in his year and teacher smiles as they remember how he impacted on their lives and they remember the sense of fun and laughter he brought. He will be sadly missed."

Peter's funeral will take place at St Peter and St Paul's Church, Pickering, on Tuesday, at 1.30pm. Non-family members have been asked for donations in lieu of flowers to Diabetics UK and the Alexandra Under-18 Bowling Club.

Updated: 10:59 Friday, June 27, 2003