TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular teenager who died following a month-long battle with acute pancreatitis.

Connor Hepworth, 14, from Tadley, was cared for by staff at the paediatric unit at Southampton General Hospital after gallstones passed through his pancreas, causing internal damage.

The Hurst Community College student was taken to Basingstoke hospital on June 1, two weeks after he turned 14, when he complained of stomach pains. After Connor’s condition worsened, he was taken to Southampton General Hospital where he died last Thursday.

Paying tribute to her “cheeky chappy” son, Jenni Hepworth, 42 told The Gazette: “He was just a fun child and he wanted to make everyone laugh.

“He was a bit of a class clown, but he was also a really bright boy so he frustrated his teachers at times, but he was extremely popular.

“He just had an infectious personality, he would say hello to anyone and try to put a smile on their face.”

Miss Hepworth said Connor continued to make jokes in hospital, where he had six operations.

She added: “He kept putting his hand up asking the nurses questions and just being Connor, and these are the memories we will all hold dear.”

Staff and students at The Hurst have placed a tribute on the bench in the school grounds where Connor ate his lunch every day, leaving notes and candles in remembrance.

The school is also looking to place a permanent tribute there.

Headteacher at The Hurst, Roger Jones, said it was a devastating loss of a well-liked, hardworking student who had a bright future ahead of him.

Mr Jones said: “Our school community has been saddened by the tragic loss of one of our pupils .”

Connor enjoyed playing football with his friends, and his former teammates at Aldermaston Football Club are planning to host a tournament in his honour.

The teenager, who had an older brother, was heavily involved in the Cubs and Scouts, and became a Beaver leader.

“We have had people say such lovely words about Connor,” added Miss Hepworth.

Burham Copse Primary School added to the tributes to Connor.

Headteacher Alison Armstrong said: “Staff here are deeply saddened.”

Miss Hepworth said Connor’s funeral will be a celebration of his life, and are requesting mourners to attend in bright colours to reflect his personality. The funeral will take place on July 28, at 3.30pm, at the Basingstoke Crematorium.

The family ask for no black and no flowers.

Family friend Hayley Bone has set up two pages to raise funds for the PICU and Ronald McDonald House which helped and supported Connor and his family.

Donate at justgiving.com/fundraising/Connorsarmy and justgiving. com/fundraising/Connorsarmy2.