Friends remember murdered Jimmy

Police believe Jimmy had tried to avoid a fight minutes earlier

Classmates of teenager Jimmy Mizen have paid tribute to the 16-year-old who was murdered in a south-east London bakery.

A celebratory leavers' Mass at St Thomas More Catholic Comprehensive in Eltham was turned into a memorial service for Jimmy.

Jimmy was attacked and killed in the shop in Lee on Saturday, 500 yards from his home, trying to avoid a fight.

Scotland Yard has refused to comment on reports a 19-year-old suspect has fled to Northern Cyprus.

Press reports say an arrest warrant has been issued for a young Turkish man over the stabbing.

Jimmy had been attacked with a shard of glass and left with fatal cuts to his neck.

Forensic samples

His family said the 6ft 4in schoolboy brought them joy "every day of his life".

His father Barry, 56, vice-chairman of governors at the school, described his son as a "gorgeous and loving boy" who adored his brothers and sisters.

He said: "We loved him and he loved us back. He was very proud of his family."

His wife Margaret, 55, said: "He was the loveliest, gentlest giant. He was loved by everyone, by his school, the church and his family."

Police are still interviewing a "significant witness", a man said to have seen part of the fatal attack.

Det Ch Insp Cliff Lyons, who is leading the investigation, said officers had gathered CCTV footage and forensic samples.

Mr Lyons has stressed the murder was not race or gang related.

Jimmy who lived with his family in Dallinger Road, Lee, had been due to start an apprenticeship in Southwark Council's housing and maintenance department.

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