TRIBUTES have been paid to a 10-year-old boy who was killed while crossing a road. Jack Duval was knocked down in Abbey Road, St John's Wood, last Friday evening leaving his friends and family devastated. The incident, which police say was an accident,

TRIBUTES have been paid to a 10-year-old boy who was killed while crossing a road.

Jack Duval was knocked down in Abbey Road, St John's Wood, last Friday evening leaving his friends and family devastated.

The incident, which police say was an accident, was witnessed by shellshocked traders.

Jack, who is a pupil at Primrose Hill Primary School, was playing with his friends at around 8.30pm when the tragedy occurred.

He suffered serious injuries after being hit by a black Citroen C3. He was rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital, but died the next day.

The driver of the Citroen was unhurt but badly shaken by the accident.

Bimi Humolli, who owns a coffee bar on Abbey Road, said only moments before Jack had come in asking him for coffee beans to use for a game the boys were playing.

He had just popped down to his basement when the crash happened and emerged to see the aftermath.

"The boys were messing around but he was just a child. I wasn't able to sleep for two days," said Mr Humolli.

Hugo Antonio, who manages Bruno's Deli next door, has equally harrowing memories of the incident: "I came out to see what was going on and there was an ambulance and police everywhere. That's when I saw a kid on the side of the street and he was fighting for his life.

"He was just here in front of the shop - nothing has ever happened like that before around here. I'm still coming to terms with it and seeing the flowers on the road reminds me of it all the time."

A floral memorial, pictured left, has been left at the scene near the Rowley Way estate, as well as cards and letters paying tribute to the 10-year-old from Holborn.

One message reads: "To dearest Jack, Your [sic] be sadly missed. You'll never be forgotten. Rest in Peace. Love from Ann + family."

Another well-wisher wrote: "To a special boy who's with the angels forever. Never forgotten. Love Maryanne Leon."

Staff at Primrose Hill Primary School have also paid their respects. Headteacher Jane Hunter said: "Jack was a much- loved member of the school community. He was lively, amusing and engaging and will be greatly missed by both staff and friends.

"It was a tragic accident which shocked and saddened us all. We send our sympathy to his family and especially his mother who worked as a volunteer at the school."

The school is now collecting donations to put up a plaque in Jack's memory and are due to hold a special assembly for him. Witnesses to the collision should call 020-7288 6808.