The devastated family of a seven-year-old boy murdered in an arson attack in Deptford have pleaded to anyone with information to come forward.

Joel Urhie, who lived in Adolphus Street, died in the early hours of August 7 after his house was deliberately set on fire.

His mum and sister escaped the blaze by jumping from the first-floor windows.

Nobody has been charged in relation to Joel’s death and his family have now spoken out in the hopes of helping the investigation.

Mum Iroroefe Urhie, who spent a month recovering in hospital, said: “Joel was the sweetest most caring little boy you could ever meet. He was so intelligent and always curious to learn new things. He never complained about anything.

“He always wanted people around him, that was why we used to go to the park a lot so that he could make new friends. His smile and laugh would light up a room and he was so full of life and energy."

Joel’s cousin Tega Majoroh, 18, described him as like a little brother to her, and said: “As someone who’s lost a brother and for the sake of his mother and sister, we are appealing to anyone who has a heart and has any knowledge of what happened to call the police and give any information they have.”

Tega described Joel as “the sunshine after the rain” and visiting him was “like a breath of fresh air”.

She added: “He was always happy and always made others around him happy. There are so many memories that I will always treasure - and there will always be a hole in our hearts where his memory will lie."

Detective Inspector Alison Cole said the family have been left shattered and that police “desperately need your help” to find those responsible.

She added: “Did you see anything suspicious in or around Adolphus Street on Tuesday, August 7 in the hours prior to the attack, or have you heard anything about how it might have started.

“Even the smallest piece of information could help us at this stage so I would urge you please to contact the incident room without delay. If you do not want to talk to police you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Anyone with information should contact the dedicated incident room on 020 8345 3715 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.