PUPILS and staff at Durrington's Upper Avon school are trying to come to terms this week with the death of one of the school's popular students, who was found hanged at his home on Friday.

Peter Cooper, who celebrated his 16th birthday in February, lived in Philip Road, Durrington, and was a Year 11 pupil at the school.

Staff at the school spent the weekend talking with Peter's parents Andy and Jacqueline Cooper and Peter's school friends, offering the support of the school.

Headteacher Rowena Brooks said Peter's mother visited the school on Monday morning and, while obviously distraught, wanted to make sure that everyone at the school realised that her son had been happy there.

"She wished us to ensure that we speak to his close friends, who are clearly distressed at what has happened," said the headteacher.

Mrs Brooks said Peter had always been fully involved with the life of the school, taking part in drama productions and other school activities.

She said he was a popular student, with many friends.

The teenager also played an active role in village life and had appeared in at least one production by the Durrington Amateur Dramatic Society.

Peter was also an active member of the Scout movement and last year was one of several south Wiltshire scouts who represented Britain at the World Scout Jamboree in Thailand.

Peter was found hanged at his Philip Road home and was rushed to Salisbury district hospital with a police escort but attempts to revive him failed.

On April 4, Peter was the victim of an assault in Durrington recreation ground and had suffered bruising and cuts to his ribs and face.

A 17-year-old Amesbury youth was cautioned by police after the incident, which had happened about 10.30pm that night.

A police spokesman said there was no indication at this stage that Peter's death was in any way linked to bullying.

The spokesman said Peter's parents had been happy with the way this case of bullying had been handled and that they were happy with their son's life at school.

The spokesman said Peter's family had been left completely traumatised by what had happened.

Wiltshire coroner David Masters has been informed and an inquest was opened and adjourned on Tuesday afternoon.

There will be a celebration service for Peter's life at the Garrison Church, Larkhill, on Monday at 2pm.