Tributes have been paid to an eight-year-old boy who died following a firearm incident on a farm near Warcop on Saturday.

Jay Cartmell, of Frizington, died following the incident on land not far from the A66.

A 60-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter and has since been released on bail.

Football clubs across west Cumbria have paid tribute to Jay, who was a youth player for Whitehaven Miners FC.

Posting on social media, Whitehaven Miners FC said: “RIP wee man #oneofour #lanternforlife Our thoughts are with your family, coaches and team mates.”

(Image: Frank Chalmers PA Wire)

A statement from Whitehaven AFC read: “Our heartfelt condolences to this little lad’s family, our neighbours, Whitehaven Miners Social Football Club, his friends, team mates and all that knew him.

“Truly devastating news, any support we can offer please let us know.”

Nicola Stephenson, secretary for Bransty Rangers JFC, said: “On behalf of everyone at Bransty Rangers JFC we send our sincere condolences to all at Whitehaven Miners and Jay’s family and friends.”

Linda Jones-Bulman, who represents Cleator Moor East and Frizington on Cumberland Council, said: “What a tragic loss of a young life. The Frizington community are sending prayers and holding the family in our hearts.”

Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington, said: “This is an absolutely tragic and heartbreaking loss of such a young life. I know that our whole community will have Jay’s family in our thoughts.“

As police continue with their enquiries into the incident, they are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or the moments leading up to it, to come forward.

Anyone with information which may assist can report to police online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit quoting incident number 135 of 28 September 2024. They can also phone on 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.