A boy (7) believed to have suffered 80% burns while playing in a street with friends in Scotland has died in hospital. Preston Flores was reportedly set on fire accidentally while playing a game in Aberdeen on Friday.

In a statement released through police, his mother Luisza said "Preston's family want to inform the public that their precious little boy has passed away and is at rest. He meant the world to his family and will always be deeply missed and loved".

"Preston was a special little boy and his loss has ripped our family apart".

The statement added "On behalf of our family I would like to thank everyone for their support but would ask that we are now allowed to grieve in peace for Preston".

Earlier reports said Preston may have been involved in a game that went tragically wrong. The children are believed to have taken a petrol can from the back of a van shortly before the fire started, according to local newspaper The Press and Journal.

One relative told the Daily Record that Preston had been "mucking about" with mates before his clothes caught fire.

Witnesses described hearing screams and said the youngster's clothes stuck to his body as neighbours tried to douse the flames.

A report into the tragedy will be sent to the Scottish Public Prosecutor in due course as is usual procedure.

Detective Inspector Lorna Ferguson, of Police Scotland, said "Our thoughts are with Preston's family, friends and the Bedford community at this sad time".