Two schools attended by a boy who died when he was hit by a bus last week have paid tribute to him.

Jonathan Debnam, a pupil at Samuel Whitbread Academy in Clifton, died on Thursday (July 4) when he was hit by a bus on the A600 High Road, just outside the village of Shortstown, where he lived.

The 14-year-old, who was a former pupil at Robert Bloomfield Academy in Shefford, was an active member of the Army cadets and had planned to work for the Disasters Emergency Committee when he grew up.

In a tribute to Jonathan, Samuel Whitbread Academy said: "It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we share the news of the tragic passing of Jonathan, one of our Year 9 students, in a road traffic accident

"Jonathan was a cherished member of our school communi­­­­­ty, known for his maturity beyond his years, his quick-thinking intelligence and strong sense of friendship.

"He was passionate about his activities with the army cadets, details about which he would regularly share with his form group. He was also an excellent public speaker who could confidently put his case across.

"Jonathan had a close-knit group of friends, who will undoubtedly feel his absence profoundly. His spirit, warmth, and the joy he brought to those around him will be sorely missed by all of us.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Jonathan's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

"We will be offering support and counselling to any students and staff who need it, as we navigate through this period of grief together.

"Jonathan's memory will live on in our hearts, and we will remember him always."

Robert Bloomfield Academy has also paid tribute to Jonathan.

"We are absolutely devastated to lose such a gentle, kind and caring young man from our community," the school said.

"For all who knew Jonathan, this is an incredibly hard time. However, we take great comfort in the memories we shared with him during his four years at Robert Bloomfield Academy.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jonathan’s family and friends during this unimaginable time.

"Jonathan attended our school for four years, however will be part of the Robert Bloomfield Academy family forever. Never forgotten."

In an earlier tribute, Jonathan's family described him as "a funny, kind and intelligent boy who loved his family and friends with all his heart".