Prime Minister pays tribute to 15-year-old boy killed in Horsforth

The Prime Minister has paid tribute to the 15-year-old boy stabbed to death in Horsforth, saying his heart goes out to his family.

The victim has been named locally as Alfie Lewis.

Rishi Sunak said: "My heart goes out to the family and friends of the young person who was tragically killed.

"What I want to say is we're doing everything we can to clamp down, in particular, on knife crime as it impacts young people."

During a visit to a school in Lincolnshire, the Prime Minister was asked about the pupils at the boy's former school and said: "My heart and sympathies go out to all of them. They've lost a friend and this is awful.

"I know that they will be shocked by what's happened.

"I want to make sure that in all communities across the country we've got police officers that are giving people the reassurance they need that their communities are safe."

The head teacher of Horsforth School Paul Bell said in a statement: "Horsforth School is overwhelmed by the kindness and support offered to us following the tragic loss of one of our former students yesterday.

"Everyone's thoughts and sympathies lie with the boy's family and friends.

"A tragedy like this is a huge shock to our school and local community, and we understand that people will be deeply affected by this rare incident.

"However, we know the community will rally together to support each other during this very sad and difficult time.

"We are working with Leeds City Council and other agencies to support our students and staff who have been affected."

Meanwhile a fundraising page set up by chef Matt Healy has raised more than £7,000.

In a post on social media Matt, who runs the restaurant Forde Horsforth, said Alfie was his daughter's best friend.

The fundraising page reads: "We are trying to raise enough money to support his family and teenage friends through everything they now have to face, much too soon.

"Alfie was a kind and thoughtful boy who had all of his friend’s best interests at heart.

"He was loving, mischievous, adventurous and, as such, extremely popular. He was everything a 15 year old child should be and his life was senselessly taken from him before he had the chance to grow into it.

"His loss is felt deeply by the whole of Horsforth. A lovely, kind, funny, mischievous, brave and generous young boy lost his life tragically and his family, friends, and all who knew him, would love to give him the funeral and tribute he deserves.

"Please help us show Alfie that Horsforth still loves and will forever miss him."