A FAMILY has paid tribute to a teenager who “had a kind word for everyone”.

Harper Green pupil James Jones, aged 15, was found hanged in woodland near Ellen Grove, close to Clifton Country Park, on Monday.

In a statement released by police, his family said: “James was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and uncle.

“He loved spending time with his family.

“James was a keen windsurfer and sailor who had spent the last three summers at Salford Quays attaining his level 3 sailing.

“He loved his family holidays abroad surfing and scuba diving with his dad and brothers or just simply digging channels in the sand as the tide came in.

“James was a kind, loving boy who always had a smile and a kind word for everyone.

“He truly had a heart of gold. He was a hard-working, polite, conscientious boy who always did well at school.

“Goodnight and god bless son... continue to shine as bright as you have always done.

“You were a bright boy, a happy little chap, who was loved by all.

“You will always be here in the hearts of your family. Sleep tight our little angel, love and big kisses Mum & Dad, Ashleigh, Paul, Michael, & Olivia xxxxxx.”

James' body was found by a nearby resident at about 7.40pm.

The death of James, of Lawefield Crescent, Clifton, is not being treated as suspicious, police said.

An inquest is due to be opened into his death.