MORE than £5,000 has been raised to give the 'best send off' to a boy who died tragically in the River Tyne.
Members of the public have given £5,456 to a Go Fund Me page set up following the death of Robert Hattersley, of Crawcrook.
The fundraising goal was set at £4,500.
The 13-year-old died after coming into difficulty in the river near Ovingham during the UK heatwave.
A family friend, who set up the page, wrote: “I’m fundraising to help out a family who sadly have just lost their much-loved son and brother.
“Robert was playing with friends down at Ovingham river where he was swept out by the current.
"Sadly, Robert did not make it.
"I’m looking to try and relieve the family of as much stress as possible right now as it will be very stressful as it is never mind having to worry about funeral costs.”
She added: “Every little helps to give Robert the best send off.”
Robert's family has paid tribute to him, saying: "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.”
Floral tributes and messages were left at the scene, including one which read: "tried to save him, but couldn't hold on anymore."
An online book of condolence has also been set up by Thorp Academy, Ryton, where Robert was a Year 9 pupil.
Donate to the fundraiser: https://www.gofundme.com/f/to-give-robert-hattersley-the-best-send-off
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