TRIBUTE has been paid to the eight-year-old boy who died after falling in the River Arrow in Alcester.
Joshua Hillstead died from complications resulting from drowning after being rescued from the river by emergency services.
The family of the Birmingham youngster said: “There are no words to describe the devastation we are feeling for your loss. We miss you so, so much and would do anything for one more smile, one more cuddle, or just to talk to you one last time.
“Mommy and daddy are lost without you. You were such a big part of our family, and we will never be the same again. The day we lost you, we all lost a part of ourselves along with you.
“The thought of having to carry on life without you breaks our hearts every day. There is a big space that only you can fill, your amazing personality and your
beautiful nature made everyone love you even more.
“You were the kindest, most caring, and most considerate and gentle boy, and we are so incredibly proud that we were lucky enough to be your parents. Even though it was such a short time, you filled our hearts with so much love and joy.
“Your cheeky smile and funny, crazy side were enough to cheer up anybody’s day and to put a smile on their face.
“You were so special Joshy, so beautiful in every single way.
“All of the family are devastated at your loss. Mommy, Daddy, Stepmum Emma, Nanny Lesley, Nanny Anna, Nanny Hillstead and Grumpy Grandad. All of your aunts, uncles, cousins, and most of all your big sister Caitlyn-Ann, your little brother Joey, and your stepbrothers and stepsister.
“We all love you to the moon and back, and hope that wherever you are that you are happy, and we can’t wait to see you on the other side. ”
Joshua was pulled from the river behind Kingfisher Way at around 9.30pm on Monday July 23
He received first aid before being rushed to Birmingham Children’s Hospital where he died the following day.
Another child who was in the water did not require further treatment and returned home.
