TRIBUTES have been paid to a Kidderminster teenager who died after falling into Weymouth Harbour.

Christopher Vaughan, 18, who has been named locally, was pulled out of the water early last Thursday morning but later died at Dorset County Hospital. Dorset Police say the death is not being treated as suspicious but officers were investigating why he was in the water.

His family has issued a photo to The Shuttle and flowers and notes have been left at the harbour close to where Mr Vaughan was found paying tribute to him.

One heartfelt message read: "In loving memory of my son, Christopher, who died here aged 18 years. You will never be forgotten and always much loved."

Another said: "We love you so very, very much, we will always miss you, we will never, ever forget you. You're always in our hearts."

Shuttle online readers have also left their tributes to the former King Charles I School sixth form pupil.

Sabrina Bell wrote: "Will always remember him for being so very talented and intelligent, it was a shock to hear the sad news. Such a waste at a young age, thoughts go to his family and friends."

Christopher Price commented: "He passed before his time but in life he was truly ahead of his time. An exceptionally bright man, he will be sorely missed."

His former teachers at King Charles I had also paid their respects. Stuart Arch, assistant headteacher and director of sixth form studies, said: "Chris was a very able and intelligent young man, who was a year younger than his colleagues yet matched them academically in every way.

"He enjoyed science subjects and played an active role in the school's science club for gifted and talented students for a number of years. Senior colleagues and teachers at King Charles remember him as a talented mathematician, showing flair and an intuition for solving problems.

"Chris was popular with his peers, having a ready wit and sense of humour. This is a tragic loss and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."