Mason French’s family has remembered him as the ‘most precious little boy’ (Picture: North News/Northumbria Police)

A ‘precious’ 11-year-old has died after being hit by a bus while out cycling.

Tributes have poured in for Mason French, who was named by police today following his death on Tuesday afternoon.

The schoolboy was on his bike in Whitburn, South Tyneside when the crash happened. He died at the scene on Lizard Lane around 3.30pm.

Officers from Northumbria Police are investigating the circumstances of the case.

Mason’s aunt Laura has described him as ‘the little boy who first taught me unconditional love’.

She has started a GoFundMe campaign so his family can ‘give him the best celebration we can’.

Writing on the page, she said: ‘I am the aunty to the most precious little boy. The little boy who first taught me unconditional love. 

‘The little boy who would light up the room when he walked in with his smile and his humour. Unfortunately, this little boy was tragically taken from us suddenly.’

She added: ‘No parents ever expect to have to deal with this news or arrange a funeral for their 11-year-old boy. 

‘In this current climate funds are difficult anyway and my beautiful sister hasn’t even returned to work yet after having a gorgeous baby girl. 

‘So never did I think I would do this but so many people have asked how they could help.

‘A few quid would really help take some of the stress away of trying to give him the best celebration we can.’

Messages left for Mason at the scene describe him as ‘amazing, kind-hearted and beautiful’.

His family is being supported by specialist officers and has requested privacy.

Inspector Phil Patterson, of Northumbria Police, said: ‘We are continuing to support Mason’s family as they try and process what has happened.

Mischievous goats get so rowdy town has to create task force to control them

‘Our thoughts are with Mason’s loved ones, as well as the local community, who are deeply saddened by this tragic incident.

‘We are working hard to establish exactly what happened in the moments leading up to the collision and have already spoken with the bus driver, who remained the scene, as well as a number of witnesses who were in the area at the time.

‘As ever, if you think you can assist us, please get in touch.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected].

For more stories like this, check our news page.

Tributes have poured in for Mason French after his picture was released by police today.