LANGLEY MILL FIRE: Parents of Belper teen Edward Green pay tribute to “an incredible son and brother”

Edward Green lost his life in the blaze at a flat on North Street on Sunday, June 21, alongside friend Amy Smith, 17, and her six-and-a-half month old daughter Ruby-Grace Gaunt.

Eyewitnesses said 17-year-old Edward, a former Heanor Gate Science College pupil, had initially escaped from the property but went back in to try and save Amy and Ruby-Grace.

READ MORE

Belper’s hero Ed was a ‘kind lad’ who loved to crack jokes

In a statement released this afternoon, Edward’s parents Wayne and Amanda Green said: “Our son was a wonderful young man whose life has been devastatingly cut short in circumstances we still cannot comprehend.

“Edward was an incredible son and brother who had a huge zest for life and welcomed every challenge with determination and enthusiasm.

“He was a warm, compassionate boy whose infectious personality has left an impression on all of those who were fortunate enough to meet him. Edward was a ball of sunshine whose smile shone each and every day and he will be missed by so many people.”

Edward’s parents paid tribute to the “overwhelming support” received in the wake of the tragedy from the Belper community, particularly the sports organisations and the scout movement which the teenager belonged to.

“The support provided by school teachers and pupils is of great comfort to us and Edward’s brothers and sister. It is with their help and guidance that all three will continue to make their brother proud,” they continued.

“Our thoughts are with those who loved Amy and Ruby-Grace, who were so tragically taken alongside our beloved son. We will never understand why our children have been taken from us.

“Our thanks go to those people who have done everything in their power to help, including those who were at the scene last Sunday and those who continue with their investigations to bring justice for all of those affected by this horrific event.

“The love of our family and friends has enabled us to cope with the events of last week and their continued support and care will ensure that we may be able to rebuild a future without Edward.”

• Three men have appeared in court charged with murder in relation to the fire.

Peter Eyre, 43, and his sons Anthony, 21, both of Central Avenue, Sandiacre, and Simon, 24, of New Tythe Street, Long Eaton, each face three counts of murder.

They all appeared at Chesterfield Magistrates’ Court on Friday, when their cases were adjourned until Monday July 10 at Nottingham Crown Court.

A 17-year-old from Long Eaton, who was also arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released on bail.