A TEENAGER from Worcester who died this week has been remembered as a "hero" by his family.

Jacob Wells - known as Jake to his family and friends - died on Tuesday, April 8 after being taken to hospital by ambulance from his home in Great House Road at about 6.30pm on Saturday, April 5.

In a statement the family of the 17-year-old - who was in his first year at Worcester Sixth Form College when he died - called him "a much loved son and brother."

"He was a vital part of a large family who all adored him," they said.

"He will be remembered for his love of science, Dr Who and his need for immaculate hair.

"Friends from Our Lady Queen of Peace, Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College and Worcester Sixth Form College have showered the family with love and support.

"Jake loved Marvel superheroes and he was a hero to all of his little cousins.

"Wonderful memories will one day help his family live with their terrible loss."

A flood of messages of remembrance were posted on Twitter and Facebook following his death and a book of condolence was opened at the reception of Worcester Sixth Form College.

Speaking on Thursday principal of Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College in Timberdine Avenue, where Jake was a pupil until last year, Sean Devlin called him "a very, very good student" and described his death as "a tragic loss".

A police spokesman has said officers had investigated the teenager's death, which was not being treated as suspicious.

Details have been passed to the Worcestershire coroner and an inquest will be opened in due course.