Photos of boy, 9, killed by lightning while playing football is released as stepfather pays tribute

Photos of the 9-year-old boy struck dead by lightning while playing football has been shared online as his heartbroken stepdad paid tribute to him.

Jordan Banks, was taking part in a one-on-one session on a playing field in Blackpool, England, when the horror unfolded on Tuesday night, May 11.

He was rushed to hospital but sadly couldn’t be saved and died shortly after.

Jordan’s devastated stepdad Daniel Begg shared an emotional picture to Instagram today, May 12.

Mr Begg was just feet away sitting in a car when the tragedy unfolded, a friend said.

He posted a picture of himself holding hands with Jordan, with the caption: “Hand in hand….always” alongside three heart emojis.

The dad of a close friend of Jordan, Chris Campbell, said: “Jordan was having a one-to-one coaching session.

“His step-dad was in the car at the time. It is awful.

“He was having a coaching session at the time to help improve his game.

“I feel so sorry for his family and what they are going through.”

Tributes have flooded in Jordan from his football team, the Clifton Rangers Junior FC.

They said: “Jordan of our U9 Bees, tragically passed away yesterday evening doing what he loved.

“Jordan was a Shining Light and an inspiration to everyone that he met. A strong, determined and courageous young man, who will be missed by everyone.

“The world has truly lost an extraordinary young man, who had done so much good in his community.

“We cannot begin to imagine the grief of the family. Our thoughts, prayers, love and hugs go out to them all and to his teammates, friends and coaches who are devastated by the loss.”

The club said they will be working with the Football Association to “support the family and anyone else touched by this tragedy”.