The sun shone down on family, staff and pupils as they gathered to celebrate the short life of Rochester Math sixth former Jack Maddams.

The poignant event took place on Monday next to an oriental cherry tree planted near the entrance in memory of the talented 17-year-old who died in his sleep on Sunday, March 30.

The tree was chosen as it flowers in April, the month of Jack’s birthday.

A plaque in front of the tree reads ‘Jack Maddams 8.4.90 - 30.3.08 Castle House and a Proud Williamsonian Strong, Fit, Artistic Forever in our Hearts Never Forgotten.’

Head teacher Dr Gary Holden opened the ceremony followed by readings from Jack’s friend Sam Shearer, art teacher Steven Marsden and sports teacher Kevin Bailey.

Jack’s dad Roger then stepped forward to present the head with a self portrait of Jack and donations given at his funeral. The cash will be used to set up an annual prize in memory of his son.

Mr Maddams said:“This is one of several tributes to Jack and it seems fitting to have a tree that will grow tall and strong.

“The school as a whole has done us as a family really proud and we are grateful for what you have done and to Miss [Anna] McGinn [a history teacher at the school] who ran the London Marathon in memory of Jack and raised money for the charity CRY.

“We’ve set up a memorial fund in conjunction with the school and we are looking for an annual prize along the lines of sporting and academic endeavour. So far we have raised £2,756 for the prize to be established as a memorial for Jack for many years to come.

“Keep celebrating Jack’s life, share your thoughts. It was short, too short, but it was sweet.”

Mr Maddams, his wife Janet and son Robert then turned the soil along with other family members.

Individual flowers were also laid at the base of the tree by students.

One card read: “This flower is to show you how much you are missed you were so great in everything you did and I’m so proud. You fitted so much in to your short life. RIP Kirsty xx”