Crowds gather for emotional send off for Tomasz Oleszak in Gateshead

The streets were lined with purple balloons as the estate bid its final farewell to 14-year-old Tomasz Oleszak. The funeral was held today for close family and friends to pay their respects to the teen who died earlier this month.

In a touching moment the crowds who gathered clapped for Tomasz, as the funeral procession passed through the town.

Residents took to Facebook to send condolences to the family, and share their sadness at the loss of Tomasz. One person wrote: “Love and strength to his family and friends”, while another wrote: “Rest in peace young man”. Another person commented on the crowds clapping, writing: “Heartbreaking. Lovely to see communities showing their support for his family and friends. RIP Tomasz.”

Northumbria Police said Tomasz suffered an injury consistent with having been caused by a bladed article. Emergency services attended the scene at Aycliffe Crescent shortly after 8pm on October 3 and the teenager died in hospital the following morning.

Speaking at the time his family said he was an "amazing son" who "had his whole life ahead of him". A  14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with murder, attempted wounding and possession of a blade.