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Head teacher pays tribute to Mati Urb, 12, who died near Dover cliffs

A boy who died at Dover's cliffs during the Easter holidays has been described as an "utterly delightful child" by his head teacher.

Mati Urb was walking along the top of the cliffs near Swingate on April 4 - his 12th birthday -, when his mother noticed he was no longer with her.

Martin Hall from ACS International School Hillingdon has described Mati as highly popular with a wry humour and lovely sense of style. Picture: GatheringUs website
Martin Hall from ACS International School Hillingdon has described Mati as highly popular with a wry humour and lovely sense of style. Picture: GatheringUs website

She subsequently called the coastguard who found his body at the foot of the cliffs.

A post mortem examination determined the cause of death to be a traumatic head injury.

As pupils return after the break, Head of school at ACS International School Hillingdon, Martin Hall has today released a tribute to his pupil.

He told how Mati, who had joined the school last August, was already highly popular, with a wry sense of humour and lovely sense of style.

He said: "We are absolutely devastated at the news and send our heartfelt condolences to Mati’s family.

"Mati was an utterly delightful child - inquisitive, friendly and kind, with a thoughtful and considerate manner.

"He enjoyed making people laugh, with his wry sense of humour, and had a lovely sense of style.

"He was making excellent academic progress at school, learning English quickly after joining the school in August 2021, and was highly popular with his fellow students, as well as being held in considerable affection by the school staff.

"We will all miss him greatly.”

Mati lived at Damer Gardens in Pinner, Greater London.

An online memorial has been set up for Mati Urb, who was found at the bottom of cliffs near Dover. Picture: GatheringUs website
An online memorial has been set up for Mati Urb, who was found at the bottom of cliffs near Dover. Picture: GatheringUs website

An inquest into his death opened on April 14.

Coroner Patricia Harding adjourned the hearing for a full inquest to be heard at the Archbishops' Palace in Maidstone on June 27.

Another tribute has been posted to Mati on memorial website, Gathering Us.

Alongside a picture, the tribute reads: "Mati was a beloved brother, son, friend, and student.

"We are devastated by the loss of this loving, caring, funny, and kind young man.

"Mati was a friend to all who knew him and never hesitated to say hello or help someone in need.

"He will be desperately missed by all who knew him.

"Rest in peace, dear Mati."

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