SCHOOLMATES of a boy who died after being swept out to sea are being offered counselling to help them come to terms with the tragedy.

Children returned to St Helen's Primary School, in Hartlepool, yesterday for the first time since Jordan Moon's death during the summer break.

Some of them took part in an assembly where prayers were said for the popular youngster. Teachers are considering plans for a lasting memorial.

Headteacher Lana Totty said eight-year-old Jordan's death had devastated everyone connected with the school.

Mrs Totty said: "We had an assembly in which we welcomed a new beginning, new children and a new member of staff and also talked about saying goodbye to someone we all knew and loved.

"A letter is going out to parents to give them advice on dealing with their children's questions because often they find them very difficult to answer.

"We also have a trained bereavement counsellor on our staff."

Jordan died after being carried away by a freak 8ft wave which struck as he was paddling near the shore at Seaton Carew beach.

He was described by his mother June Wharam as "a lovely, lovely son".

Mrs Totty said yesterday: "He was a very well-liked member of the school and was very close to all of our hearts."