Stanley Metcalf family issue statement

Following the tragic death of six-year-old Stanley Metcalf in Sproatley last month, his family issued a tribute to him ahead of his funeral:

“We are absolutely devastated and completely heartbroken without Stanley and it still doesn’t feel real we won’t see his happy, smiling face again. 

“There are no real words to express how the loss of Stanley has affected us and we all miss him so much. 

“He was so vibrant and full of energy, a typical six-year-old boy who just wanted to have fun and enjoy life, and he adored playing football.

“The condolences and support we have received has been incredibly touching and we would like to thank everyone, friends, the general public and the media, for their kind words and sensitivity during what is such an emotional and devastating time for us.

“Stanley’s funeral will be a day dedicated to him and for him, he is all that matters.

“We would please ask that our wishes of privacy are respected and his day remains about him, with those attending who knew Stanley being allowed to mourn alongside us without any intrusion.

“Stanley was a loving, caring and beautiful boy, and there is huge gap in all our lives now that will just never be filled.”

Police were called to a property on Church Lane in Sproatley at around 4pm on Thursday, 26 July following reports Stanley had been seriously injured at the property.

Stanley was immediately taken to hospital where he sadly died the same day.

An investigation is ongoing and various, voluntarily interviews have been conducted by officers to assist with enquiries. No arrests have been made.

At this sad and difficult time, we would please ask the family’s privacy and their wishes are respected.