Family pays touching tribute to seven-year-old Portsmouth boy who died in Lanzarote pool

His parents Annelies Denecker and Gus Badran, who were at the inquest into his death today, said: ‘Apollo was a popular Year 2 pupil at St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School in Southsea.

‘He was always trying to make his friends laugh - and usually succeeded! He was determined, a quick learner, wonderfully creative and enjoyed sport, being healthy and strong.

‘Losing Apollo has left a permanent vacuum in all our lives.

‘He was a happy, kind boy with the most incredible smile, a wonderful brother to Eva and Oscar and an amazing son to us both.

‘We are very grateful to our Southsea community, church and school who came together at such a difficult time and continue to support us still.

‘We have been touched by the many messages, kind words and memories of Apollo which people have shared and these are a great source of comfort.

‘The time we had with Apollo was far too short but we will always treasure the memories of our talented, witty and cuddly boy.’