A FAMILY fun day will be held in memory of a teenager who died in the River Tyne.
Thirteen-year-old Robert Hattersley, of Crawcrook, died after coming into difficulty in the river near Ovingham during the UK heatwave.
A family-friendly event at Crawcrook Albion Football Club will see members of the community come together to remember Robert, a former Year 9 pupil at Thorp Academy in Ryton.
The event, on September 3, will have a number of activities for visitors, including live music and dance, rides and a football match.
Robert's family paid tribute to him after his tragic death 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."
Members of the public have also donated over £5,000 to a Go Fund Me page set up by a family friend in the wake of the teen's death to support his greiving family with funeral costs. It is understood a memorial bench for Crawcrook Park is being planned.
The family-fun day is free entry and starts at 1pm.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here