Family Tributes To “Beautiful, Happy” Glen, 11

The family of an 11-year-old boy, found dead at a hotel, have paid tribute to a “wonderful, beautiful happy boy”.

Meanwhile, Glen Freaney’s mother Yvonne, 48, has appeared before Cardiff Crown Court accused of his murder.

Glen, from Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, who was severely autistic, was found dead at a hotel near Cardiff Airport after police were called on Saturday.

Mrs Freaney made a brief appearance in court and was remanded to a mental health clinic until next month.

In a tribute, released by South Wales Police, the family said: “Glen was a wonderful, beautiful happy boy, our family are extremely proud of him, especially his achievements, despite his condition.

Glen will be deeply missed by all of us and will constantly be in our thoughts Family tribute

“It cannot be underestimated how much Glen was loved by all of us.

“He has deeply touched us during his time with us. We are all devastated by this tragedy.

“Glen will be deeply missed by all of us and will constantly be in our thoughts.

“We asked that our privacy be respected so we can deal with our sad loss as a family.”

The headteacher at Glen’s school, Ashgrove in Penarth, also paid tribute to a “lively character” who would be “greatly missed by all that knew him”.

Chris Britten, said: “His love of drawing led to a prize from the mayor earlier this year. Indeed, anything or anyone standing still for long enough would soon become part of Glen’s art work!

“Glen was at his happiest when playing outside on the bikes and scooters with boundless energy. He thoroughly enjoyed watching all types of transport especially lorries and fire engines, which would result in him jumping with excitement.

“Glen was a huge part of Ashgrove – he was mischievous and loveable and will be remembered by staff and pupils with great fondness.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Glen’s family as they, like us, struggle to come to terms with our loss.”

Vale of Glamorgan council is providing support to pupils and staff at what it described as a “very difficult time”.

South Wales Police said they had been called to the hotel in Rhoose on Saturday.

The last confirmed sighting of Glen alive was on Thursday.

Officers have appealed to anyone who saw Glen at the Sky Plaza Hotel last week to contact them.

They said family liaison officers remained with the family, with the investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room on 01656 679 585 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.