A 13-YEAR-OLD schoolboy who died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest has had a special academic award dedicated to his memory.

Joe Symon, collapsed in the bedroom of his Darwen home before being placed in intensive care at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool.

Despite doctors best efforts the 'normally well' Darwen Aldridge Community Academy student died a few days later.

Joe, who lived with his mum Tracey and Dad Tony, had three sisters and three brothers.

As a special tribute his parent's have asked the school to name a trophy after him which will be giving to the most improved student in his year group each year at DACA.

The devastated family have also dedicated a plaque to the teenager in the Sudell Road school's reception bearing the words ‘In Loving Memory of Joe Symon’.

His older sister Kelly, 24, said he was an ‘amazing’ brother who was taken far too young.

She said: “He was always happy and so fit and healthy.

“He loved going to school, even in the holidays he was always working and that’s why we wanted an award to be named after him.

“He had an infectious laugh which everyone just loved. He had loads of friends.

“He wanted to work with animals when he was older. He was so young. I have three kids of my own and I just can’t even imagine this happening to them.

“He was an amazing brother.”

The youngster had been drinking a cup of tea in his bedroom when his dad walked in and noticed he had lost his breath and had to give him CPR.

He was then taken to A&E at Royal Blackburn Hospital before being transferred to Alder Hey.

Joe, who had previously attended St James’ CE Primary Academy, had a huge love of insects and enjoyed learning languages at school.

The family set up a JustGiving page in his memory and the £1,000 raised will now be donated to Alder Hey and the Ronald McDonald House where Joe’s mum stayed while he was in hospital.

Joe's teachers at DACA have also organised a sponsored walk in his memory which will take place later this year.

Kelly said: “We’d like to thank everyone for their kind donations.

“Lots of pupils went home from school the day he died because they were heartbroken.

“It has come as a huge shock to everyone.”