Holiday death boy Apollo was 'happy, kind boy with incredible smile'

The family of seven-year-old Apollo Badran have spoken of the loss of "an amazing son" who has left a "permanent vacuum in all our lives".

His parents, Annelies Denecker and Gus Badran, sister Eva Badran, 10, and seven-year-old brother Oscar Badran said: "Apollo was a popular Year 2 pupil at St Swithun's Catholic Primary School in Southsea, Hampshire.

"He was always trying to make his friends laugh - and usually succeeded! He was determined, a quick learner, wonderfully creative and enjoyed sport, being healthy and strong.

"Losing Apollo has left a permanent vacuum in all our lives. He was a happy, kind boy with the most incredible smile, a wonderful brother to Eva and Oscar and an amazing son to us both.

"We are very grateful to our Southsea community, church and school, who came together at such a difficult time and continue to support us still.

"We have been touched by the many messages, kind words and memories of Apollo which people have shared and these are a great source of comfort.

"The time we had with Apollo was far too short but we will always treasure the memories of our talented, witty and cuddly boy."

Describing Apollo during the inquest, Ms Denecker added: "He was a healthy boy, he was all into being healthy and strong, always asking if there was sugar in things, he was all about being strong and doing exercise."

The family have said they are planning to establish a charity to help promote safety on holiday and to prevent future deaths.