STAFF and students at a secondary school are in shock following the sudden death of a 15-year-old boy.

Callan McClintock died at home in Taunton on Saturday morning and attempts to revive him at Musgrove Park Hospital were unsuccessful.

His devastated family have asked for privacy and have requested that fellow students at The Castle School refrain from posting comments on social media while they grieve.

The school website reported the tragic news of the Year 11 student’s death “with great sadness”.

The statement said: “Callan had very many friends across the school and was a popular and well-liked student.

“We ask you to help us in remembering Callan as he was - a funny, sensitive and kind person who was a real individual.

“He drew great inspiration from his music and was unconventional, free-thinking and original in his art.

“He will be much missed.”

The statement added: “Year 11 students are obviously very upset and grieving for Callan but there may well be some students who are upset, even if they did not know Callan, as this may bring back memories of other bereavements.

“We have asked all of our students to be kind to each other at this time and respect everyone in our school.”

Books of condolence have been opened at the school and will be passed onto the family later on.

Trained counsellor and the pastoral team at Castle are offering support to students and will contact parents “if they think their child needs to be at home”.

Head teacher Sarah Watson said: "While it is no comfort, it is a relief to know that there was nothing going on at school that contributed to this.

"I would encourage any students affected to talk to their school and their teachers - there are always people in schools who can help."

West Somerset Coroner Michael Rose has opened and adjourned an inquest into Callan’s death, which police are not treating as suspicious.

If you have been affected by this story, contact the local Samaritans at 16 Wood Street, Taunton, phone 01823-288998 or e-mail jo@samaritans.org