A tragic accident that cost a 16-year-old boy his life has left the town of Otley in shock.

James Peter Still, better known as Jamie, died in the town centre just after 9pm on New Year’s Eve when he was in collision with a car while crossing the road.

Bouquets of flowers with messages and Leeds United football tops now line the spot in Boroughgate, near the Methodist Church’s front entrance, where the accident happened.

His devastated family said they had been greatly helped by messages of support from the community. Jamie was a student at St Mary’s School, Menston.

A statement by Jamie’s parents, Karen Strong and Mike Still, said: “Jamie was the most loving and wonderful son. He was not a ‘typical teenager’ and was a caring and thoughtful young man who was much loved by his family and friends.

“We are utterly devastated by the loss of our son.

“We would like to thank the emergency services and staff at Leeds General Infirmary for all the work they did to try to save Jamie’s life. The messages of condolence from his friends have been a great comfort to us and his sister.

Catherine McMahon, the acting headteacher at St Mary’s School, Menston, said: “In a society where young people do not always receive the best media coverage, James was a truly gentle young man.

“His thoughtful and caring nature was evident in all aspects of school life.

“James represented everything that is good about St Mary’s. He was very hardworking and popular with students and staff.”

Mrs McMahon added: “He played an active part in school life, especially trips, and always supported the school’s charities.

“His kind and generous disposition was valued by his close circle of very loyal friends and he was equally well respected by his peers and staff.

“He will be a great loss to his year group and to the school community as a whole. The impact of James’ death is devastating.

“At St Mary’s we are working together to support all members of our community, in particular James’ family and close friends during these very difficult times.

“An appropriate and lasting memorial to James will be planned in the near future.”

Police say Jamie was crossing from the Methodist Church side of the road when the accident, involving a silver Vauxhall Corsa, happened about 20 metres west of Boroughgate’s junction with Walkergate at 9.05pm on Friday, December 31.

He was taken to Leeds General Infirmary where he died of his injuries.

The messages attached to the football tops and flowers left in his memory included this note from a friend: “Rest in Peace Stilly. We’re all gonna miss you so much. Thanks for being there for me when I needed someone. You were a great person and an awesome mate.” Another simply said: “You won’t be forgotten. Memories will be cherished.”

Otley’s MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) said: “Like everyone else in Otley, I am stunned by this awful tragedy.

“The whole community is reeling from this and my thoughts and prayers go out to Jamie’s family”. Police are appealing for witnesses, or anyone who saw the car or Jamie just before the incident, to contact the major collision enquiry team on 01924 293047.

Jamie’s funeral will be held at Our Lady & All Saints Catholic Church, Otley, at noon on Wednesday, January 12. Donations in his memory may be given at the service to St Mary’s Menston School Charities.

A 20-year-old local man was arrested in connection with the incident and has been bailed pending further police enquiries.