A boy who was knocked off his bike and killed will be laid to rest later this month as his heartbroken friends and family will say goodbye.

Mason French died at the scene when he was hit by a bus in Whitburn, South Tyneside on Tuesday, October 25.

The 11-year-old had been on his bike in Lizard Lane when the tragic incident took place at around 3.30.pm.

Read more: The absolutely incredible amount raised after boy, 11, knocked off bike and killed

At the time, hundreds of tributes poured in from far and wide with many describing him as the "most amazing, kind-hearted, beautiful boy."

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Meanwhile, at the scene of the tragic incident, flowers were left with handwritten notes from friends and family.

One described him as 'the brightest star in the sky' addind that he will be "forever loved, forever missed, never forgotten."

This week, the funeral details for young Mason were announced as those who knew him have been encouraged to attend.

In a statement on behalf of the family, Tynedale Family Funeral Directors said it will take place on Thursday, November 10 at 11.15am.

Read more: Police name boy, 11, who died after being knocked off bike by bus

Held at South Shields Crematorium, those who attend have been asked to do so in casual clothing or what Mason would have seen them dressed in.

The statement said: "Beautiful son to Kay and Dean, loving big brother to Wren. Much loved by grandparents Julie, Robin, Richard and Karina.

"Adored by Aunties Laura and Sarah. Missed greatly by great-grandparents, uncles, cousins and friends.

The Northern Echo:

"The family is aware of the devastating impact this has had on the community, so welcome people who knew of Mason to join them."

They added that family flowers only are requested.

Since Mason's death, thousands of pounds have been raised in memory of him and in a bid to support his family.

The GoFundMe, which was set up in the days following, has since seen more than £20,000 raised by hundreds of well-wishers.

Northumbria Police last week said it was continuing its investigation into the circumstances leading to Mason's death.

Inspector Phil Patterson of the force said: “We are continuing to support Mason’s family as they try and process what has happened.

“Our thoughts are with Mason’s loved ones, as well as the local community, who are deeply saddened by this tragic incident.

“We are working hard to establish exactly what happened in the moments leading up to the collision and have already spoken with the bus driver, who remained at the scene, as well as a number of witnesses who were in the area at the time.

“As ever, if you think you can assist us, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact police by calling 101 or using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria Police website, quoting log NP-20221025-0586.

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