HEADTEACHER Pat McDonnell spoke this week of the ''devastating'' impact of the death of a pupil from suspected meningitis.

Matthew Broome, aged six, from Congleton, pictured above, died on Friday at the North Staffordshire Hospital NHS Trust.

He had been admitted to the hospital the previous day with suspected meningococcal infection.

Matthew was a pupil at Smallwood Primary School, and his death stunned everyone at the school and in the local community.

Specialists in communicable disease control are contacting close contacts of Matthew and offering them antibiotics.

A letter went out to parents on Friday containing advice and reassurance it was safe for their children to go to school.

Another pupil at Smallwood Primary School fell ill in January after being struck down by meningococcal disease.

The pupil made a full recovery, and South Cheshire Health Authority said it was satisfied there was no ''medically significant'' connection between the two children.

"The whole school community was devastated by Matthew's death,'' said Mrs McDonnell.

''Our hearts and prayers go out to his parents and family.

''Matthew was a lovely little boy, bright, always cheerful and a model pupil. We will all miss him dearly.

''He took part in all school activities, and was a keen and talented young footballer.

''Our pupils have already suggested we name a special football cup in his memory.''

The funeral for Matthew was due to take place yesterday.

''Specialists in communicable disease control are in close contact with the school, and all significant contacts of the child will be identified and contacted to offer them antibiotics,'' said South Cheshire Health Authority spokesman.

Parents with concerns can ring a 24-hour freephone helpline, 0800 8800 3344, run by The Meningitis Research Foundation.

The most common type of bacterial meningitis in children and young adults in the UK is meningococcal infection, and the meningococcal germ can cause meningitis and septicaemia.