Family of boy, 13, who died in river in heatwave say he was 'so kind and loving'

The devastated family of a 13-year-old who died in a river during the current heatwave have described him as "so kind and loving".

Robert Hattersley, 13, from Gateshead, passed away after getting into trouble in the River Tyne near Ovingham in Northumberland.

Emergency services rushed to the scene at around 4.15pm on Sunday, ChronicleLive reports.

Police officers, firefighters and rescue workers searched for Robert and his body was found in the water shortly afterwards.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

On Monday, Robert's family said they had been left "devastated" by his death.

A huge search was launched to find Robert (North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk)

In a statement, 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."

The teenager was pronounced dead at the scene (North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk)

Police do not believe there to be any third party involvement and a report will be made for the coroner. Officers are continuing to support Robert’s family and have asked that their privacy is respected at this time.

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.

Robert's family said they had been left "devastated" by his death (North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk)

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"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."

Chronicle Live previously reported how officers received a report of concern for the welfare of a male who had come into trouble in the river near Ovingham.

People were asked not to gather in the area to allow for those at the scene to carry out their duties.