A GoFundMe has been set up to support the family of an eight-year-old boy who "died in his dad's arms". 

Joshua Hillstead, from Maypole in Birmingham, died at Birmingham Children's Hospital following complications as a result of drowning. 

Warwickshire Police were called at around 9.30pm on Monday (July 22) after the young boy fell into the River Arrow behind Kingfisher Way in Alcester. 

Police, fire and ambulance service crews were in attendance and Joshua was pulled from the river before receiving first aid and CPR. 

Joshua was then taken to hospital where he had been receiving treatment until he died late on Tuesday evening (July 23). 

One other child was also in the water but did not require further treatment and was returned home. 

DI Heidi Twynham said: "Losing a child is devastating and we offer our condolences to the family after this tragic accident. We are liaising with the family to provide support.

"Thank you to our officers, members of the emergency services, and the hospital staff for everything you’ve done over the past few days."

A GoFundMe has now been set up by family friend Kyle Hotchkins to help support the family at this difficult time. 

Mr Hotchkins said: "I am fundraising to help the family of Josh Hillstead who horrendously lost his life after coming into difficulty in the River Arrow, Alcester on Monday. 

"The 8-year-old passed away in his Dad's arms at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

"As a friend of the family, I have spoken to Josh’s Dad and I want to give them help, so they do not have to worry about anything whilst they are going through this horrendous tragedy."

More than £4,000 of the £5,000 target has already been reached thanks to generous support from the community. 

To donate to the fundraiser visit www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-josh-hillstead