Family pay tribute to boy killed in explosion

Seven-year-old Archie York died following the blast on Wednesday

The family of a seven-year-old boy who died following an explosion said he would remain in their hearts "forever and always".

Archie York died at the scene of the blast, which happened at about 00:45 BST on Wednesday, destroying six flats in Violet Close, Benwell, Newcastle.

His parents Katherine and Robbie said Archie was not only their son "but our best friend".

An investigation into the cause of the blast, which also killed a man, named locally as Jason "Jay" Laws, continues.

Five adults and a child were taken to hospital, including Archie's parents and brother, who have since been discharged.

'Heart of gold'

In a statement, released by Northumbria Police, the seven-year-old's parents said they were "so broken" as a family, but Archie would live on in his baby brother Finley, who they said was the "spitting image of him".

"As a whole we are still wanting to wake up from this nightmare, but Archie knows he will be in our hearts forever and always," they said.

"He lit up every room he went in, whether that was with his cheeky smile he was known for or some of his cheeky words.

"He might have been small but he had a heart of gold, everyone loved him."

The cause of the blast is being investigated

Supt Darren Adams, of Northumbria Police, said the force's thoughts were with Archie's loved ones.

"He has lost his life in truly tragic circumstances, and we would ask everyone to respect his family’s privacy," he said.

Investigations into what caused the explosion are ongoing, the force said, adding that cordons are expected to remain in place for "some time".

It added it was working alongside groups, including the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

"We are committed to providing answers to what has happened," Supt Adams said.