THE heartbroken family of eight-year-old Joshua Hillstead, who died after being pulled from the River Arrow in Alcester, have spoken of their devastating loss.

The schoolboy from Maypole, Birmingham, died on July 23 following complications resulting from drowning.

Struggling to come to terms with the tragedy, his devastated family have told how much they miss their “caring and most considerate and gentle boy”.

In a tribute released by Warwickshire Police, they said: “There are no words to describe the devastation we are feeling.”

They told how much Joshua is missed and said they would “do anything for one more smile, one more cuddle”.

Joshua HillsteadJoshua Hillstead (Image: Warwickshire Police)

His parents said they have been lost without him – adding: “We will never be the same again.”

They described him as “the kindest, most caring, and most considerate and gentle boy” with a “cheeky smile and funny, crazy side” that would put on a smile on people’s faces – and said he filled their hearts with “so much love and joy”.

They added: “All of the family are devastated at your loss. Mommy, Daddy, Stepmum Emma, Nanny Lesley, Nanny Anna, Nanny Hillstead and Grumpy Grandad. All of your aunts, uncles, cousins, and most of all your big sister Caitlyn-Ann, your little brother Joey, and your stepbrothers and stepsister.

Joshua HillsteadJoshua Hillstead (Image: Warwickshire Police)

“We all love you to the moon and back and hope that wherever you are that you are happy, and we can’t wait to see you on the other side.

“On behalf of our whole family, we would like to express our deepest gratitude and love to the emergency services that helped rescue our boy, gave us the time to be with Joshy, and allowed us the chance to say goodbye.

“Also, to the amazing doctors and nurses who treated our boy with the utmost respect, care, and love. To us, you are all true heroes, and words cannot express our gratitude.”