Tributes to teenage boy who died at reservoir

19 July 2018, 09:28

A teenage boy whose body was recovered from a reservoir has been described as a talented young footballer who was "friendly and very caring".

The family of a teenage boy whose body was recovered from a reservoir have paid tribute to their "little comedian" and said their lives will never be the same.

Ben Thomson, 14, died at Glenburn Reservoir in Paisley, Renfrewshire, on Tuesday evening.

Emergency services launched a major search operation after reports of a person in the water at the site near Braehead Road.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were sent to the scene just after 5.30pm and Ben's body was recovered at about 8.10pm that day.

In a statement issued through police his family said: "Ben was one of the kindest, sweetest, son, brother, grandson and friend that anyone could ever have.

"He was our little comedian, always cracking jokes and keeping us all amused. Our lives will never be the same."

The teenager was from the Glenburn area of the town.

The 14-year-old's head teacher said the school community is devastated at the news of his death.

Lisa Chalmers, head of Gleniffer High School in Paisley, said: "Ben William James Thomson was a well-liked, friendly and very caring pupil, who always greeted you in the corridor.

"Ben was due to start his fourth year of secondary school in August. As well as succeeding in academic subjects, Ben was also a very talented young footballer, achieving extracurricular awards for his achievements in the game.

"Ben comes from a very loving and close family and our thoughts and prayers are with his parents and sister at this very sad time.

"Pastoral support will be available at the school for pupils."

Renfrewshire's Provost Lorraine Cameron said: "This is the worst thing that can happen to a family, and my thoughts are with them and all of Ben's friends during this terribly sad time.

"Glenburn is a very close-knit community and I know everyone is already rallying around the family to give them the support they need to cope with such a tragic event."

Officers said a post-mortem examination will take place in due course to establish the exact cause of death, but it is not being treated as suspicious.

A report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.