THE former school of a 16-year-old boy who died after he was discovered hanging by a tie has paid its respects to his family.

Michael Browning, who had a twin sister Katie and a younger sister Lucy, was found at his Beaconsfield Street home in Haslingden on Sunday.

He was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

Anthony Nicholson, deputy headteacher of Haslingden High School, today said: "Michael joined the school in June 2000 when his family moved to the area.

"He soon settled into school life and made a number of close friends.

"Michael was a very pleasant and polite young man who was held in high regard by both his teachers and fellow students.

"He had a jovial nature and led a full and active part in the school."

He added: "Michael showed a particular aptitude for art.

"The school has made contact with the family to express its deepest sympathies."

Mr Nicholson said no plans had been made for a memorial service or prayers for Michael at this stage but that staff were considering what the next appropriate action would be.

Police have said there there were no suspicious circumstances in Michael's death.

Their findings have been passed to the coroner and an inquest has been opened and adjourned.