The parents and brother of Josh Reeson joined his friends, teachers and classmates at Joseph Rowntree School today to celebrate his life.
Josh, 15, died on Sunday (27 September).
This afternoon Joseph Rowntree School students and staff came together to remember him.
Students from all year groups, and members of staff, took part in a one-minute clap for at the end of the school day.
It was a chance for all those who knew him to remember happy times that they had spent with Josh.
Tragedy rocked the school
Headteacher Dave Hewitt said: “We were really touched that Josh’s parents and brother were able to join students and staff at today’s event and we all hope that this brought them some comfort at this time.”
He added: “The school is still trying to come to terms with the tragedy of Josh’s sudden and early death.
“Earlier this week, members of staff shared their memories of Josh with me and have described him as being engaged in his studies, bright, polite and a hard-working student who came from a loving and supportive family.
“Students knew him as a true friend. Many of them have told me how he was there to listen to them, help them with their worries and would always make time to contact them if he knew they were having a hard time.
“Our lasting memory of him will be of a lovely young man who will be sadly missed.”
Police investigation ongoing
Josh, from New Earswick, died after taking illegal drugs with a group of people. He was found at 4am last Sunday, and died later the same day in hospital.
Police arrested six people as part of their investigation. Two teenage boys were released under investigation on Monday.
The following day, a 15-year-old girl, 16-year-old boy, 33-year-old woman and 37-year-old man who had been arrested in connection with the Josh’s death were released on bail with conditions.
Investigations continue
Mr Hewitt said: “I know that many people in the wider community may want to contact Josh’s family to express their condolences.
“Whilst the family appreciate the support of others, they have asked that their privacy is respected at this time, and that they are left to grieve with close friends and family.”