TRIBUTES have today been paid to the young son of former Ipswich Town striker Chris Kiwomya following his sudden death.

Lucas Kiwomya, believed to be seven years old, was taken to Colchester General Hospital on Wednesday night after suffering “serious breathing problems”.

Lucas – understood to be one of four siblings – died a short time afterwards.

Staff and pupils at Highfields Primary School in Manningtree, where Lucas was a pupil, were said to be devastated by the news.

A spokesman for the school said the youngster had an “infectious giggle”.

The spokesman added: “We are all devastated at Highfields by the sudden and untimely death of a much respected and well-loved pupil.

“Lucas was a delightful boy, with a ready smile and an infectious giggle.

“He loved school and was always keen to do his best. He will be very sadly missed by staff and pupils alike.

“All our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

It is understood the ambulance crew was called to his home in Lawford just after 7pm on Wednesday.

The East of England Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “We were called at 7.13pm to a seven-year-old with serious breathing difficulties, treated him on scene and took him to Colchester General Hospital.”

Since the youngster’s death, there have been a number of messages from well-wishers on Twitter.

Brantham Athletic tweeted: “BAFC would like to wish under 16/18 player Jourdan Kiwomya and all the Kiwomya family their condolences at this sad time.”

Brendan Burgess said: “Give a RT to show your respect to Chris Kiwomya’s son who sadly lost his life last night.”

Lauren Sharp said: “Such a shame someone died so young.”

Mr Kiwomya, who was born in Yorkshire, played for Ipswich Town from 1987 until 1995. He was the club’s top goalscorer in the 1991/92 promotion season and played more than 250 times for the Blues.

He left Portman Road for Arsenal, before a spell with Queen’s Park Rangers and Grimsby Town. He also played in France, Denmark and Malaysia.

The 42-year-old was reserve team coach at Ipswich Town from 2008 until 2011, and is currently development squad manager at Notts County.

Blues spokesman Steve Pearce said: “Our thoughts are with Chris and his family at this very sad time.”

The death has been referred to the coroner.

n Do you want to pass on your condolences to the family? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail starnews@archant.co.uk