The mother of a 10-year-old boy who was killed by a dog has paid tribute to her “beautiful” and “sweet” son.

Jack Lis is believed to have been attacked in a friend’s house in a nearby street after school in Caerphilly.

In a Facebook post, his mum Emma Whitfield wrote: “With so much heart break and before close friends and family see his name in the news, I have to announce our beautiful boy Jack was taken so tragically yesterday.

“It was not our dog nor did it happen at our family home. He was out to play.

“We love you so much our sweet sweet boy.”

Naming the boy as Jack Lis, Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough of Gwent Police said in a statement: “My condolences and thoughts are with Jack’s family, friends, school friends and everyone affected by this within the community.

“We can confirm that the attack did not happen in the house owned by Jack’s family, but inside another property on a nearby street.

“Officers are continuing to make further enquiries at this time and will remain at the scene as the investigation progresses.”

Emergency services, including firearms officers, were called to an address in Pentwyn, Penyrhoel, at 3.55pm on Wednesday.

Welsh Ambulance Service paramedics attended to the boy but confirmed that he had died at the scene.

Firearms officers destroyed the dog which was the only animal involved in the attack.

Police are expected to be present in the area as they investigate the incident.

Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough said: "Officers will be making further enquiries at this time and will remain at the scene as the investigation progresses.

"It is possible that you may see ongoing police activity in Caerphilly as part of this work.

"You may have also seen an increased presence earlier today while officers were attending the incident, but please do not be alarmed.

"If you have concerns or information then please do stop and talk with us.