AN online book of condolence has been set up after a 13-year-old died in the River Tyne.
Robert Hattersley, of Crawcrook, died after coming into trouble in the river near Ovingham on Sunday.
The teenager's body was found in the water after a large-scale search by emergency services including police, fire, ambulance, mountain rescue and the coastguard.
Robert was a pupil at Thorp Academy, Ryton, who has set up an online book of condolence - already flooded with signatures.
READ MORE:https://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/20286845.schoolboy-died-river-tyne-named-robert-hattersley-crawcrook/
A spokeswoman for the school said: "Northern Education Trust Thorp Academy, and the wider school community, is devastated by the loss of much-loved Year 9 student, Robert Hattersley, who tragically lost his life when paddling with friends in the River Tyne.
"Our thoughts are with Robert's family and friends at this very sad time, and we are offering them our support, as well as supporting our other students and staff.
"Robert was a well-loved member of the academy family, who immersed himself in all aspects of school life; he was a kind and caring young man who was popular with staff and students alike."
Police do not believe there to be any third-party involvement and a report will be made for the coroner.
The online book of condolence can be found at: https://ta.northerneducationtrust.org/book-of-condolence/
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