The friends and teachers of a Hackney teenager who fell to his death while rock climbing in Costa Rica have been paying tribute to a “popular” and “inspirational” student.

The friends and teachers of a Hackney teenager who fell to his death while rock climbing in Costa Rica have been paying tribute to a “popular” and “inspirational” student.

Lucas Drummond, 16, from Meynell Crescent, the son of former Hackney councillor John Drummond, died at the weekend following the tragic accident.

The former Stoke Newington School pupil had been studying in the Central American country after he was offered a place at the United World College in San José, a non-profit organisation dedicated to offering an educational programme to young people.

Lucas leaves behind his mother, Carol, and brother Hugo.

This week Annie Gammon, his former headteacher at the school in Clissold Road, Stoke Newington, paid tribute to him.

She said: “Everyone at Stoke Newington School is shocked and saddened by this tragic news.

“Lucas was a popular member of our school for the five years he was with us – many of our students stayed in touch with him once he had left and started sixth form in Costa Rica.

“Lucas was very talented in many areas and we remember his drama performances particularly well. Staff and students have signed a book of condolences at the school, and our thoughts go out to his family at this terrible time.”

Many of Lucas’s friends have expressed their shock and left messages of condolences on social media.

Catie, an ex-classmate, tweeted: “RIP Lucas Drummond. Such an inspiration, an amazing guy. Tragic news about the climbing accident. You’ll be missed by all.”

Rosee Henderson tweeted: “Rest in peace Lucas Drummond, such a lovely boy, you will be so, so greatly missed x x x.”

Lord Dissick also paid his respects: “R.I.P to a real G Lucas Drummond, heaven’s gained an angel” and Sarng_raw posted: “R.I.P Lucas Drummond. One of the loveliest boys I had ever met.”

A spokesman from the Foreign Office said: “We are aware of an incident involving a British national in Costa Rica and providing consular assistance to the family.”

Both Lucas’s parents have flown to Costa Rica.

The funeral will be held at St John of Jerusalem Church in South Hackney on a date to be confirmed.