The family of a Radstock teenager have released a heartfelt tribute to their ‘beautiful boy’, after an 18-year-old man was charged with his murder.

Charley Bates, 16, of Radstock, died on Sunday, 31st July in The Street. Three arrests were made as part of police enquiries, and an 18-year-old man from Frome been charged with murder.

Paying tribute, Charley’s family said: “Our beautiful Charley boy. We are all so proud of you. You are desperately missed by so many.”

Friends and family have gathered for a vigil in support of their ‘kind’ Charley.

Cllrs Nick Toogood and Chris Dando, from Radstock Town Council and Eleanor, said, “The vigil to mark the tragic death of Charley who was a Writhlington school pupil, took place on Friday 5th August.

“Around 300, mainly young people, gathered quietly at the Wheel at Waterloo Road.

“Many wore yellow ribbons, carried sunflowers and a variety of yellow and metallic balloons.

“Everyone then walked solemnly and respectfully to the batch where the balloons were released, which was a very moving experience.”

Jackson and Lesley Mansell from Westfield Parish Council attended in a personal capacity.

They said they “wanted to show respect and express condolences to family and friends while showing solidarity with all young people and others in our community in Radstock.

“We are equally shocked at this tragic event and want to do all we can to support those affected by this,” they said.

A friend, Will Lakey, has creating a ‘Go fund me’ page, in order to support his family at this difficult time.

Will wrote: “The end of July, Charley died. I may not be his blood family, but he was a brother to me, someone who stood by the people he cared about the most.

“Char never put himself first, he always thought of other people and that’s what he died doing.

“He was such a kind kid, who never deserved to have his life stripped away from him. The potential this boy had was unbelievable.

“Charley was a intelligent kid. Me and C sat through the whole of secondary together. He always wanted to help people.

“For someone to take such a kind, gentle, and warming life away is absolutely disgusting.

“This fundraiser isn’t for me or any of his mates, it’s simply for Charley’s family, and for whatever they want to do with it. Whether it be for the funeral, or to allow his mother days off work to remember her beautiful boy. So help Charley like he would have helped you!”

Over 1,000 people have already donated to Charley’s GoFundMe page, raising over £22,000 so far. To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/to-help-cb-and-his-family-get-the-right-send-off

Eighteen-year-old Joshua Delbono, of Slipps Close, Frome, was charged with murder last Tuesday, 2nd August, and attended Bath Magistrates Court the following day, where his case was sent to Bristol Crown Court for a hearing on Thursday, 4th August.

No bail application was made, so Delbono remains in custody.

Dates were set for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 30th September, and the trial is due to be held at the start of next year, on 23rd January 2023.

The police investigation continues. If you have any information, call 101 and give reference 5222182800.