Family and friends of a popular schoolboy - who died suddenly - paid tribute to the football-mad youngster at a celebration of his short life when his funeral was held at a packed Wingerworth Parish Church.

Spireites season ticket holder, Joe Barrett (11), who died at his home in Clay Cross after a short illness, loved going to Chesterfield matches with his granddad Colin Pearce of Newbold and his younger brother Liam. 

Joe became ill on Thursday June 7 with abdominal pain and was discharged from Chesterfield Royal Hospital three times before he died on Monday June 11, prompting Royal chief executive Eric Morton to launch a full care review.

Devastated mum Ruth (39) said Joe would be greatly missed by his many friends and family members. She said: "He was an amazing and brave young man."

Dad Roger (49), who lives at  Wingerworth, said Joe was a caring and loving brother to eight-year-old twins Niamh and Liam, and added: "He enjoyed his life to the full, and his bubbly presence will be missed."

Chesterfield manager Lee Richardson said: "Everyone at the club is shocked at the news of Joe's premature death and we extend our sympathy to his family at this sad time."

Joe's parents said they did not want to comment on the circumstances of his death, which is being investigated by Chesterfield's coroner.

The youngster, a pupil at Deer Park Primary School, was a keen footballer and played for Wingerworth Villa under-11s - a team which won promotion this season.

The football club was represented at Joe's funeral held on Monday 25 June 2007.