Organs of lightning death boy save three children

THE heartbroken father a tragic nine-year-old boy killed by lightning while playing football says his donated organs have helped save the lives of three other children.

An emotional message on behalf of Matt Banks revealed his selfless son Jordan was registered as an organ donor because he “wanted to help other people if he could.’”

Mr Banks said he “couldn’t have been prouder” of his “little best mate” in a touching tribute posted to Facebook on Thursday, two days after Jordan died on a playing field.

The statement said: “Literally, words can’t even explain how heartbroken I am.

“Not only have I lost my little boy, I have lost my little best mate.

“Jordan was and is the most amazing little person, he had the biggest heart and would do anything for anyone.

“And when parents say they have the best kid ever, he genuinely was the best ever and if I ever could have asked for a perfect child that was my Jordan.

“I couldn’t have been prouder of him always putting other people above himself, such a selfless little person.

“Even now his kindness has meant that three other children may be able to live, as he always told us he wanted to be able to help other people if he could.”

Talented youth player Jordan Banks was fatally injured during a thunderstorm in Blackpool, Lancashire, at around 5pm on Tuesday.

The football-mad youngster, an ardent Liverpool fan, is thought to have been taking part in a private coaching session at the time of the tragedy.

Mr Banks also urged other parents not to take precious moments with their children for granted.

Thousands of tributes have poured in for Jordan, including from Liverpool star James Milner who described him as “a special boy taken far too soon”.