TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a young man who died in a house fire.

Craig Westhorp became trapped inside as fire ripped through the house in Formby Close, Hartlepool, in the early hours of Monday.

The 20-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, despite efforts to rescue him.

A 40-year-old man and a 17- year-old managed to escape from the house after the alarm was raised by a passing police officer.

Yesterday, his family paid tribute to him and published a picture drawn by Mr Westhorp’s seven-year-old sister, Sharne.

The family tribute read: “Craig was known as a big gentle giant, his smile would light up the room.

“He would do anything for anyone and was a well-loved lad by all in such a short life.

He lived it to the full.

“He went to St John Vianney School and then onto English Martyrs.

“When Craig left school, he had various jobs, training as an electrician and having hopes of becoming a fireman.

“One of the most important and biggest things he loved was helping his granda run a country and western festival, which was such a big part of his life.”

The statement added: “We would just like to say thank you to all friends, neighbours and everyone else for their kind words and tributes to our wonderful son.

“We cannot believe how kind so many people have been, bringing us clothing and floral tributes with kind words. It just shows how much he is loved.”

The statement was issued on behalf of his parents, Paula Sutherland and Mark Westhorp.

Mr Westhorp also leaves step-parents Andrew Sutherland and Rita Westhorp, brothers Reece and Owen and sister Sharne.

In the statement, his grandmother said: “You were a shining light to me and Granda. We need your strength my lad to get us through this.

“We love you son, you will always be our number one grandson. Goodnight, God bless Craig, lots and lots of love from Nana and Granda.”

An investigation into the cause of the fire is under way, but police said there do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances.