AN inquest is to be held next month into the tragic death of a Bradford City Academy player.

Tomi Obi Solomon was just 13 when he drowned in the River Calder in Brighouse on June 1 last year.

An inquest opening at Bradford Coroners' Court heard Tomi, who was born in Leiden in the Netherlands, was with friends when they started to jump into the river from the bridge.

Tomi also jumped from the bridge, but failed to resurface. Assistance was called to the scene and Tomi was recovered from the water by police divers.

There was devastation at news of the youngster’s death.

City’s academy manager, Neil Matthews, said: “Tomi was very popular and well thought of, by all the staff who had the pleasure of working with him.

"He will be deeply missed by all involved with Bradford City.”

Ryan Sparks, Bradford City chief executive, added: “We are heartbroken by the news of Tomi’s tragic passing. Our immediate thoughts are with his family, friends, team-mates and coaches.”

Tomi was a pupil at Brighouse High School and headteacher Richard Horsfield released a touching tribute in a letter to parents following the tragedy.

He said students and the local community had been left “deeply upset” at what had happened. 

“Tomi was a positive, friendly and supportive member of our community, who had a wide circle of friends and had built strong relationships with staff,” he said.

“He was always happy to spend time talking about football and his energy and smile were infectious; we are proud to have been part of his life, and to have had him as part of ours.”