'Our hearts are truly broken' - Henry and Heather de Bromhead's touching tribute

The racing community is in mourning following the tragic death of 13-year-old Jack de Bromhead in a pony racing accident at Glenbeigh horse and pony races in County Kerry on Saturday.

His parents, trainer Henry and Heather de Bromhead, offered these words alongside the publication of Jack's death notice on RIP.ie.

On September 3, we said goodbye to our extraordinary, beautiful 13-year-old-son, Jack.

A one-of-a-kind child who touched all our lives in the best way possible – he will be forever present in our lives. Always cherished, always loved, frozen in time with a beautiful young soul.

He was an amazing son who told us he loved us every day. He had an over-brimming heart of loyalty, empathy, patience, pluck, courage, and how he made us laugh!

Not only the perfect, funny, loving son but also an incredible loving brother to our beautiful daughters, his twin sister Mia and his little sister, Georgia. He always had their back and was fiercely loyal and kind. Our hearts are truly broken.

He made so many friends wherever he went and they felt his special, unique and loyal touch on their lives, too. We ask that they please celebrate and love him as we know he would have wished.

Jack has lived so many more years than the thirteen – he filled every moment of his days, always busy, forever curious, grasping at life and new interests.

Jack de Bromhead: had been making making a big impression on the pony racing sceneCredit: Healy Racing

The passion he had for his family and friends extended to all his hobbies and interests, too many to fit into 13 years and he was certainly too busy to spend more than a minute more than he had to in the classroom!

It started with his work on the farm, the tractor, the cattle, the ponies and horses. He was a passionate expert on them all by the time he was ten. By 11, he was offering expert advice and consultation to his father on training horses as he developed his father's passion for all aspects of racing.

He recently started at a new school and by day two had already made a huge number of new friends to add to all his closest friends from home. Jack's friendships were of the deep and loyal kind, and were treasured by him.

Jack, you will be with us always at home in your family and friends' hearts. Always present, always cherished, with so many memories from your packed, extraordinary life.

Deeply loved and missed by your parents, Henry and Heather, your sisters Mia and Georgia, your grandparents Andrew, Marian, Harry and Sally, your aunts and uncles, extended family and friends.

Our precious Jack
"And he will raise you up on eagles' wings
Bear you on the breath of dawn
Make you to shine like the sun
And hold you in the palm of his hand."