Family of three-year-old Noah Woods from Brantham pay tribute to their 'beautiful' boy
His family have described him as an affectionate, giggling little boy who lit up every room
The family of a three-year-old boy from Brantham have paid tribute to him, describing him as a happy, cheeky and playful little boy who "brought joy wherever he went".
Noah Woods was remembered by his family in a statement issued through Suffolk Constabulary.
"Noah was a happy, cheeky, playful three-year-old boy who loved to laugh, loved to giggle and who brought joy wherever he went," his family said.
They described him as being at the centre of their world, living with his mother, father and baby brother.
His family said Noah was being assessed for autism, though he had not received a diagnosis, and that he had mild hearing loss and was speech delayed.
"Despite the challenges he faced, he was learning every day," they said.
"He was saying new words all the time and had only just started finding and using his little voice. One of the things we miss most is the special sound of his voice. It was unique, wonderful, and something we will carry with us forever."
His family said Noah adored his baby brother, following him around and making him laugh, and that the bond they shared was "incredibly special".
They described how, every Tuesday since the day he was born, Noah went to the park with a treasured relative, playing chase and exploring the play equipment.
"Those moments were filled with laughter and happiness and are memories our family will treasure forever," they said.
His family described him as the most affectionate little boy, who loved hugs, kisses and holding hands, and who was tickled to sleep every night.
"He had a glow about him that lit up every room he walked into," they said.
"There was something incredibly special about him that drew people to him, and everyone who met him remembers that warmth and happiness."
His family said they wanted Noah's last memory to be one of joy.
"We want people to remember him running, playing chase, giggling and being the happy little boy that he was," they said.
"That is who Noah was, and that is how he deserves to be remembered."
The family thanked the Good Dads Club, Ipswich Town Football Club, everyone who helped during the search, the emergency services and the specialist support provided by police.
They also thanked their family and friends, and the wider footballing community from grassroots clubs to the highest levels of the game.
"The support we have received has been overwhelming, and we will be forever grateful to every single person who has stood beside us and remembered our beautiful Noah," they said.
Noah's mummy Charlie said: "If there is one thing we could ask of people, it is to hold their children a little tighter, cherish every moment, and never take those precious memories for granted."