A SIX-YEAR-OLD boy has drowned in a hotel swimming pool during a family holiday in Mexico.

Jack Porter was found dead at the bottom of the pool in the resort of Playa del Carmen.

It is understood that Jack had gone missing at the hotel moments before the tragedy.

The youngster, pictured in 2008, was on holiday with his parents and older sister when he was found dead on Sunday.

His body was due to be flown home this week ahead of an inquest opening into his death.

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesman said: "We can confirm the death of a British National in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, on Sunday.

"Embassy staff in Cancun have provided consular assistance to the family and are in contact with the local authorities and the family's tour operator."

Parents Nicholas and Lynette Porter, of Boucher Road, Cheddleton, were too upset to speak to The Sentinel yesterday.

But Jack, who had attended St Edward's First School, in Cheddleton, was today remembered for his 'sunny personality' by school staff.

Headteacher Tracey Jackson-Ward said: "Jack was such a friendly boy with a sunny personality, who was well liked by everyone. He will be missed very much indeed.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

"Any support that we can provide will be made available to the children and staff who will start a new school year without one very special little boy."

Chairman of governors The Reverend Lawrence Price, who is vicar at St Edward's Church, in the village, said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Jack and his family.

"We will do all we can to support them at this difficult time. It is a terrible tragedy for the community."

Neighbour Douglas Glass said residents in Boucher Road had been shocked by the news.

The 63-year-old said: "A couple of days before the family went away Jack was riding up and down the road on his bike.

"I've known Jack and his sister since they were born. He was always playing outside. He was a fiery little lad, a lovely boy who was full of beans.

"It's very, very sad, something you never expect to happen to someone you know."

Former St Edward's governor Jackie Griffiths, who knew Jack, said: "Jack was a very twinkly, sparkly, energetic little boy. He lit up every room with his enormous smile. He was a cheeky chappy, always wanting to play and have fun.

"It's an unbelievable shock. Our hearts go out to his family at this harrowing time."

Margaret Lowndes, of Cheddleton, who used to run Robin's Den after-school club at St Edward's, said: "Jack was a lovely little lad who will be sadly missed."

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