Teachers have paid tribute to a 13-year-old boy who died after being hit by a car in London Colney last night.

Daniel Handscombe was hit at a pedestrian crossing in Shenley Lane at about 5pm.

The Samuel Ryder Academy pupil passed away at the scene.

Matt Gauthier, headteacher at the school, said: “We are all extremely saddened and shocked by what has happened.

“He will be remembered by his peers as a young man who always had time for them and always left them with a smile.

“You could always count on Daniel giving his all in school and devoting himself to the well-being of others.”

Mr Gauthier described Daniel as an “avid artist”, and said he had been nominated as the most improved student in his year group.

Daniel's friends and family have posted tributes online.

One friend commented on Twitter: “RIP Daniel Handscombe, such a good friend to me, lovely, kind, always laughing. So many good memories, love you Dan.”

Emergency services remained at the scene for six hours. Police closed the road and blocked the scene from public view.

East of England Ambulance Service Trust spokesman Gary Sanderson said: “Paramedics and police officers worked extensively at the roadside to treat the boy but, after everyone's best efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Our thoughts are with the boy’s family at this tragic time.”