Reading stabbing: Boy's family praise 'beautiful' teen

Olly Stephens was stabbed to death in Emmer Green in Reading on Sunday

The family of a 13-year-old stabbed to death in Reading have paid tribute to the "charming and beautiful" teenager.

Oliver Stephens, known as Olly, was pronounced dead at Bugs Bottom fields, Emmer Green, on Sunday.

Four boys and a girl, all aged 13 or 14, have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. They remain in custody.

In a statement, Oliver's family said: "An Olly sized hole has been left in our hearts."

His parents said their son "was an enigma", and having both autism and suspected pathological demand avoidance meant "he became a challenge we never shied away from".

They added: "He was hilariously funny, charming and beautiful.

"He could get his own way with a wry smile and a cheeky grin. He always stood his ground and fought for the underdog whilst having an amazing depth of love, warmth and wit.

"In his final moments he must have been terrified. Fighting to get home, he had everything to live for. We now have only memories."

Officers were called just before 16:00 GMT on Sunday following reports of an attack in fields on the boundary of Emmer Green and Caversham Heights.

Det Supt Kevin Brown urged anyone with information to contact police and not to share any images or footage on social media.

A man has said his wife was walking their dog through the park on Sunday afternoon when she saw a boy on the ground with several people around him trying to give him first aid.

Another dog walker said she saw a group of young people standing in the woods in Bugs Bottom fields at about 15:30 and described it as "slightly unusual".

Earlier, Oliver's sister Emilia vowed to get justice for her brother, writing on Instagram: "I'm so sorry I failed you, I wish I could have saved you from it all.

"We will get justice for you my angel."