Tributes paid to 'kind and gentle' Taylor Black, from Stockton

Taylor Black was found dead at a house in Ketton Road, Stockton on Monday.

• Man in court charged with murder after death of Stockton 18-year-old

His mum has now released pictures of the 18-year-old.

Family friend Koren Jackson, who has set up an online fundraiser to help Taylor's family, said: "Taylor was such a kind boy, every room he walked into he lit up. His smile will live on forever and always. 

"We are all so lucky to have had him in our lives. 

Taylor with his mum

"He always wanted to take his mum everywhere, he wanted to take her to Amsterdam and Blackpool with his own money he’d been saving up. He was her best friend, he wanted to do everything with his mum. He wanted to make her proud and give her the world. 

"And now all that has been taken away in an instant. The heartache is unbearable and it still feels so surreal. 

"Taylor was a gentle, kind and loving young man."

 Hundreds of pounds have been raised for Taylor's family after Ms Jackson set on an online fundraiser to help them. 

She added: "We are simply just trying to help the family out as best we can through this tragic time.

"Every little helps and we just want to give Taylor the amazing send off he deserves and more."

Taylor with his mum who has released a number of pictures to pay tribute to her son

A 31-year-old man has been charged with murder following Taylor's death.

Nathan Costello, of Ketton Road, appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court yesterday.

He is due to appear at Teesside Crown Court tomorrow.