Parents' tribute to barn fire teen Louis Simpson

The parents of a teenager who died in a barn fire have said he was a "beautiful, beautiful boy".

Louis Simpson, 14, had been missing since a blaze broke out at Fairhurst Hall, Lancashire, on Sunday.

Police confirmed a body found in the building on Monday is understood to be Louis.

Liverpool footballer Jamie Carragher - whose son James was at the same school as Louis - also released a tribute, saying he was "absolutely devastated".

Louis's parents said: "It is with deep regret and heartbreak that we can confirm the tragic loss of our beautiful, beautiful boy Louis James Simpson.

"We are all truly devastated but want to thank our amazing family and friends for their on-going love and support."

A post-mortem examination is due to take place later.

A police spokesman said: "After an extensive search of the area, a body was recovered from the barn (on Monday).

"While yet to be formally identified, the body is sadly believed to be Louis.

"Louis' family have been informed this morning and they are being supported by specially-trained officers. Our thoughts are with them at this time."

In an Instagram post,, external Carragher said: "Absolutely devastated as a family about the news today about Louis, remember a cracking footballer for the school, holidaying with the family in Ibiza & staying over for his & James's birthday.

"Most of all a great kid. Thoughts to all his family & friends.

"R.I.P son you'll never be forgotten."

The cause of the fire is still being investigated but there are no suspicious circumstances, police added.

On Monday, Det Supt Neil Ashton said it appeared a group of friends were "playing in a rural setting" and were at the barn, which stores about 250 tonnes of straw, when the fire started.

A statement from Louis' school, Merchant Taylors' in Liverpool, where he was a Year 9 pupil, said: "Louis was a popular boy and known to many of our pupils.

"Our school community is in deep shock and we will be providing the appropriate support, advice and counselling for pupils, staff and parents over the coming days and weeks."

A book of remembrance has been made available, the school added.