The family of a five-year-old who died after being struck by a mirror at Fenwick department store in Colchester have paid tribute to their "lovely little boy".

Freddie Farrow suffered serious head injuries in the accident at Fenwick department store on Tuesday, July 27.

His mum, Natasha Ingham, said: “He will never leave us. He will be with us every single day throughout all our lives - until we see him again.

“As a family we are devastated by his death.

“He was such a lovely little boy – and very cheeky in a lot of ways.

“He used to pick me flowers every day – it could have been daisies or whatever he could get his hands on – and give them to me and tell me he loved me and I would tell him I loved him back.

“He was so content; he would always ask questions and, I know every mum will say this, he was such a clever little boy.”

She continued: “Everyone who knew Freddie just loved him – he was that kind of boy. He was always smiling and he really loved going to the beach.”

She also thanked the community in Colchester, and further afield, for the outpouring of support since the incident, adding: “I have had a lot of messages from people and that support has been really important for us and I’d like to thank people for that.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Fenwicks department store in Colchester. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNFenwicks department store in Colchester. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Freddie’s dad, Andrew Farrow, said: “I am grateful for the time we had with Freddie. Every day he was loved and cherished and brought so much happiness to everyone who knew him.

“Freddie, his brother and sister were inseparable and I know for sure he will be watching over them.

“Freddie was an expert Lego builder, confident swimmer, enjoyed crabbing and park running. He had such a contagious laugh and always pulled funny faces.

“I will miss you Fredboy, so, so much and until we meet again, I love you.

“I have also been touched by the support shown to us by the Colchester community and my family have taken, and continue to take, comfort in that.”

Freddie had just completed Year 1 at Gosbecks Primary School, in Colchester, and the family had planned a trip to Legoland for his sixth birthday before he was due to begin Year 2 at the school.

Polly Bradford, head at Gosbecks Primary School, said: “It was with great sadness that we learnt of the tragic death of Freddie Farrow, a much-loved member of our school community.

"We are still coming to terms with this devastating loss as a school, and our thoughts and sympathies are with Freddie’s family at this distressing time.

“Freddie was a little star. His sensitive and caring nature shone through with his friends, who he always looked out and cared for.

"He was a sweet natured boy who was always polite and well-mannered with everyone he came across in school.

“Freddie was a quiet and thoughtful soul and it had been lovely to see him grow in confidence over the past few months; working hard and taking pride in his achievements.

"His unique character and lovely smile touched all who knew him.

“Freddie was a credit to his family and his kindness and thoughtfulness will be sorely missed by his teachers and friends.

"Words cannot describe the utter loss felt by those who cherished Freddie.

"Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with those who knew and loved him; he will be in our hearts forever.”

Emergency services were called to the Fenwick store in Colchester High Street on the morning of Tuesday, July 27 after Freddie was injured.

The youngster received first-aid from store staff, fire crews and police officers who were at the scene.

He was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries, but tragically died from his injuries a week later.