Heartbreaking tribute to ‘kind and loving’ schoolboy who died in River Tyne

The heartbroken family of a 13-year-old who died in the River Tyne on Sunday have issued a tragic tribute to their "kind and loving" teenager.

Robert Hattersley of Crawcrook lost his life after coming into trouble in the water of the River Tyne near Ovingham in Northumberland shortly before 4:15 pm on Sunday, July 17.

Emergency services were deployed to the area and searches for Robert were carried out by a number of organisations including police, Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue Service, Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service, HM Coastguard and Mountain Rescue.

Sadly, Robert’s body was later found in the water and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Today, Robert’s family paid tribute to their "kind and loving" son who will be sorely missed by all those who knew him.

They said: “It is impossible to put into words the heartbreak we are feeling – Robert was so kind and loving. We are absolutely devastated by what has happened.

“He brought a smile to so many people’s faces and he will be missed by absolutely everyone who knew and loved him.

“We’d like to thank all the emergency services who worked so hard to try to find Robert, as well as everyone who has been in touch passing on their messages of condolence.”

Police are continuing to support Robert’s family and officers do not believe there to be any third-party involvement in the tragedy.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Brooks, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an absolutely tragic incident and our thoughts are with Robert’s family at this absolutely horrendous time.

“We will continue to support them in any way that we can, as they attempt to process the events of the last 24 hours.

“I would like to thank every organisation who assisted us with our searches, including all the volunteers. Your support is absolutely vital and it is hugely appreciated. It is with great sadness that we could not provide a more positive update.”