STAFF at a college have paid their own tribute to an inspirational teenager who had been a “great ambassador” in sport and life.

Kieran Maxwell, from Heighington, near Darlington, passed away in the early hours of Friday morning after losing a near seven-year battle with cancer.

The 18-year-old, who lost his left leg after being diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma - a rare form of bone cancer – was a student at Darlington College for more than four years.

Reacting to the teenager’s death last night, college staff said they were “noticeably upset” and there was “a strong sense of grief” from those who taught Kieran.

Kate Roe, principal at Darlington College, said: “Kieran was a great ambassador in the world of sport and in life.

“He will be sorely missed by everyone connected with the college,” she added.

Kieran, who was studying on a personal training development course at the college, won a gold medal at the Brazil Paralympic School Games in 2015 and had dreamt of competing for Great Britain in the Paralympics.

He twice beat his illness after first being diagnosed in October 2010, but a chest X-ray during a routine check-up last year brought the devastating conformation that his cancer had returned.

Bob Simpson, learning support worker at the college, said: “Kieran was a lovely young man with such a drive to inspire others around him.

“He went through some extremely dark times but always came out fighting and showed people that anything is possible no matter what.”

Staff previously embarked on the three peak challenge and a sponsored head shave to raise money for the Kieran Maxwell Fund, which was set up by his family to raise money for his treatment and prosthetic limbs.

Richard Longstaff, sport & outdoor education tutor, said: “The lad was incredible, and milked every last drop out of life – something we can all learn from.

“His friendly personality, warmth and sparkle will be badly missed, but will stay with us for ever.

“It was an absolute honour to have known him,” he added.

Tutor David John added: “Kieran’s ambition to do well was second to none and he was a role model to many of his peers.

“He never let his disability get in the way and outshone many of the group.

“He was an amazing young man, a real warrior in life,” he added.

Kieran’s family paid tribute to their “amazing” young man who “lit up the whole world” following his death.

Tributes flooded in for the athlete over the weekend from Olympians and Paralympians who had got to know him over the years.