The family of a 15-year-old boy say they have been left heartbroken after he died in his sleep.

Dillon Knight was found dead at his home in Shepshed, near Loughborough, in the early hours of Tuesday morning last week.

The youngster, who was part way through a catering course at Loughborough College, has been described as a "loveable rogue" who "would do anything for anybody".

An inquest has been opened and adjourned into his death, which is believed to be connected to the epilepsy from which he had suffered for the past five years.

Mum Rachel, 41, of Oakley Avenue, said: "We've been surprised by the amount of people that have got in touch. Everybody's just been fantastic.

"I can't believe how many friends he had. Dillon loved attention and would be pleased to know how much he's been getting. It just makes you mad that he's not here to see it."

By yesterday, 677 people had joined a Facebook page set up in his memory.

Dad Gary, 41, said: "He was what I would call a proper lad. He wasn't scared of anything, wasn't fazed by anything.

"He loved his football and playing on his X-box.

"Dillon was no angel, he could be a little boisterous at times, but he would do anything for anybody."

Sister Kimberley, 23, said: "The wonderful memories we shared will remain locked deep in my heart forever."

Brother Lewis, 17, said: "We fought, we argued, but I have so many funny and loving memories of my free spirited bro.

"He was a legend that will always be in my heart."

Elder brother Antony, 22, said: "I just hope he's looking down on us and realise how many hearts of friends and loved ones he touched."

A local youth group, Passion, opened specially for Dillon's friends on the evening of the day he died.

More than 50 youngsters got together to share memories of their friend.

Loughborough College principal Jim Mutton said staff and students were saddened to hear of Dillon's death.

Dillon's college tutor, Darren Creed, said: "Dillon was a lovable rogue, in the nicest sense. He truly was a lovely kid.

"He was with us for 18 months and was the life of the kitchen, always happy to be in there smiling and enjoying whatever task he had to do.

"He was a bright and bubbly learner who embraced catering, he was always happy to be in the kitchen, smiling and enjoying whatever task he had to do."

Dillon's funeral will be held at St Botolph's Church in Shepshed at noon on Wednesday.

He will be buried with a signed photograph of the Liverpool football team.