The families of two teenage boys who died after being stabbed in Bristol have paid tribute to them.
Mason Rist, 15, and Max Dixon, 16, were attacked in Ilminster Avenue, Knowle West, Bristol on the evening of Saturday January 27.
Local residents went to help the teenagers, described as best friends, and police were on the scene within minutes to provide first aid.
They were taken by ambulance to Southmead Hospital and Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. They died in the early hours of the following day.
Seven people have been charged in connection with their deaths – including four teenage boys and one 44-year-old man who are charged with murder.
On Thursday, the families of Mason and Max paid tributes to the boys in statements released through Avon and Somerset Police.
Mason’s family described him as a “precious son, brother, grandson, nephew, uncle, cousin and friend to many”.
They said: “There are not enough words to describe the pain we are feeling as a family.
“A kind, gentle soul who loved his PlayStation and Liverpool Football Club.
“He had his whole life ahead of him, with plans to start college later in the year with his place secured, something which was cruelly taken from him.
“We have found some comfort in the knowledge that you left this world with your best friend, Max. You will now be together forever. Also back with your dad.
“We will all miss you forever, until we meet again. We all love you so much. YNWA.”
Max’s mother Leanne Ekland, sisters Jade, Kayleigh and Jasmine Dixon, and Ms Ekland’s partner Trevor Silk, described him as “so loved”.
They said: “You were respectful, fun, cheeky, you were a mummy’s boy!
“You were a loyal friend, kind grandchild, loving nephew, annoying brother to your sisters and a loving son.
“The world is worse off not having you in it. Thanking everyone for the support for Max and Mason, it’s been overwhelming. Everyone will miss that cheeky grin of yours.”
Seven people have appeared before Bristol Crown Court in connection with the deaths.
Four youths, aged 14, 15, 16 and 17, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are charged with murdering Mason and Max along with Anthony Snook, 44.
Jamie Ogbourne, 26, of Bishport Avenue, and Bailey Westcott, 22, of Vowell Close, both Bristol, face two charges of assisting an offender.
All seven defendants will next appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing on April 26. A provisional trial date of October 7 has been fixed.
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