THE dad of a teenage boy who died while swimming in a lake has paid a heartbreaking tribute to his ‘funny and outgoing’ son.
The body of Declan Sawyer, 15, was found by police yesterday after they conducted an extensive search of Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln.
Declan’s father, Carl, said his “darling boy” loved to spend his time playing football and going fishing.
He has urged parents and children to be aware of the risks when swimming in any rivers or lakes during hot weather.
Carl said: “Our darling boy Declan was a funny and outgoing young man who loved his fishing and his football.
“He had a very cheeky smile and the personality to match. He was very much loved by his friends and family, and will be missed dearly by many.
“With his tragic and unexpected passing on Sunday 24th May at Swanholme Lakes, we would like to raise awareness about children playing near any rivers or lakes in the hot weather.
“Please can all parents, friends and family make their children aware of the dangers surrounding water.
“As a family we would like to have some privacy at this very sad and upsetting time to process our loss. Many thanks.”
This comes after police responded to reports of Declan going missing yesterday after he got into trouble in the water, but were unable to locate him.
After hours of searching and with the help of a special dive team, the force found his body in the former quarry.
Tributes from Declan’s loved ones have also been shared on social media earlier today.
One person wrote: “Words cannot describe how utterly heartbroken we are.. how life can change so fast, and in such a tragic way……
“We loved you like you was our own, looking at all the amazing memories you shared with us….RIP Declan forever in our hearts…x”
One family member said: “My heart is so heavy and I don’t have many words. May you Rest In Peace my angel.
“I love you and I promise to carry you in my heart forever.”
In a statement yesterday, Lincolnshire Police asked people not to speculate or share information that has not come from the force.
The area was cordoned off on the hottest weekend of the year as police scoured the scene.
A spokesperson for the force said: “We can update that our dive team have sadly found a body in the water at Swanholme Lakes, Lincoln.
“With agreement from the family we can share that the boy who died is 15-year-old Declan Sawyer.
“Our thoughts are with his family and we send our condolences at this incredibly difficult time.
“This is such a sad incident that will no doubt also affect many of Declan’s friends and the local community as well.
“As we are starting half-term week, we ask our community to make sure that anyone affected is looked after and that people are encouraged to seek help and support where they need it.
“We respectfully ask that people do not speculate or share information that has not come from an official source as inaccurate information can be very upsetting to family and friends.”
