TRIBUTES have today been paid to a teenager who plunged to his death from a Hampshire bridge.

Staff at Bitterne Park School and Taunton's College spoke of their shock and sadness at the loss of Jack Swallow, a "successful student who was very well liked".

The 16-year-old was in his first year of studying for A-levels in music, film studies and photography when he died.

Staff and students at Taunton's College in Hill Lane, Southampton, have been paying tribute to Jack in a condolence book that will be passed on to his family.

Head teacher Jenny Fitton said: "Jack was an intelligent, quiet young man with a very bright future in front of him. He was well liked, both by his fellow students and by his teachers. He will be greatly missed."

Susan Trigger, head teacher at Bitterne Park School in Copsewood Road, Bitterne, where Jack had been studying until last year, said: "His death is an absolute tragedy and our thoughts are with his family.

"We would like to urge children who have troubles to talk about them. If there are young people feeling this desperate they must know there are people who can help."

Jack, whose body was recovered on Friday from the River Itchen at Bitterne, is believed to have taken his own life by jumping from Cobden Bridge.

Yesterday, his parents Rob and Jean spoke to the Daily Echo and made a heartfelt plea for teenagers to share their worries.

Mrs Swallow said: "Please don't bottle it up. There are people who love you."

A funeral is expected to take place at Southampton Crematorium at a date to be announced.