FORMER top footballer John Fashanu has paid tribute to his "gentleman" nephew Jude Akapa, after his killer was convicted of manslaughter.

The former Wimbledon star and TV personality told the News Shopper how the 16-year-old killer, who cannot be named for legal reasons has robbed his family of a good-hearted and bright young man.

He said: "Jude was a gentleman, and a boy who loved his football. He was exceptionally bright. Whenever I was with him he would be talking about his homework. He was what you would call a bookworm."

Jude, who was 15, was killed by a single blow to the head in Lewisham High Road by the youth, who police had charged with a previous assault against the teenager.

Jude's mother Shola confirmed she had written a number of letters to St Joseph's Academy explaining her son was being bullied, but with no effect.

The 46-year-old said: "I'm still very upset, but also angry. Once this boy has been sentenced, we will be taking immediate legal action. What has been allowed to happen is disgusting."

Mr Fashanu said the death was a "wake-up-call" to everyone who assumes their children are safe from bullying.

He said: "When I was standing at Damilola Taylor's funeral, I had no idea I would be going to the funeral of my own nephew months later."

Jude was found lying unconscious on a sofa at his North Woolwich home by his 13-year-old brother hours after the assault on July 4. He was rushed to Newham Hospital, where he died.

The Old Bailey heard how it would be hard to prove the 16-year-old killer, who had recently left school, meant to cause serious injury.

Judge David Stokes QC remanded the youth, who is from the Sydenham area, into the care of Lewisham Council until he faces sentence on December 21.

Judge Stokes told him: "I am not going to say what the sentence will be. All options are open."

November 26, 2001 18:35