Boy pulled from river died days before ninth birthday

Eight-year-old Joshua Hillstead died on Tuesday, a day after being rescued from the River Arrow

A boy who died just two days before his ninth birthday, after being pulled from a river, has been described by his father as a "cheeky chappy" who was "loved by so many".

Joshua Hillstead, from Maypole, in Birmingham, died in hospital on Tuesday after reportedly falling into the River Arrow in Alcester.

Emergency services were was called, along with the fire service and ambulance service at 21:30 BST on Monday, to a spot behind Kingfisher Way.

Carl Hillstead said his son would be remembered as a "lovely boy, loved by us all".

"He was the apple of his mom and dad's eyes and he was loved by his step mom to the moon and back," he said.

"His step brothers and sisters and little brother and big sister loved him so much."

Coaches from the kickboxing club Joshua attended posted a tribute on Facebook, describing him as a "bubbly" and "joyful" child.

Carl Hillstead, pictured on the left holding his newborn son nine years ago, said Josh was loved by all his siblings

International Kickboxing Academy Wythall wrote: "As coaches [we] never imagined we would ever have to write a post like this.

"Josh was such a bubbly, joyful child and an absolute pleasure to teach kickboxing. Our hearts are deeply broken, and we extend our sincerest condolences and support to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Warwickshire Police said the eight-year-old died following complications resulting from drowning.

"Yesterday during our patrols we saw adults and some very young children in the River Avon In Bidford On Avon," a spokesperson for the force said.

"Please, do not do this, it is unsafe. Time and time again we have reiterated the message around water safety, educating people, which is still being ignored. Do not put yourselves and your children at risk of danger."