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'Cheeky' schoolboy, 15, dies in heartbreaking Lincoln lake tragedy as police issue new update

Family and friends share heartbreaking tributes and a stark warning to parents after 15-year-old Declan Sawyer, tragically died after getting into difficulty in Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln

[Declan Sawyer]

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Declan Sawyer's father speaks out after the tragic death of his son.

The father of 15-year-old Declan Sawyer released a statement for the first time following his tragic death in Swanholme Lakes, describing his son as funny and outgoing.

Declan was found during a search of Swanholme Lakes in Lincoln after Police received reports on Sunday around 2:30pm of a boy in difficulty in the lake. Police were supported by an underwater search team and specialist divers who worked to locate the teenager following the concerns for his safety. After a through search, the force recovered Declans body and confirmed the tragic news on Sunday night.

"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, his father, Carl said.

[Lincolnshire Police have confirmed the body of 15-year-old Declan Sawyer was found in Swanholme Lakes, Lincoln, after a search by their dive team. The discovery has deeply affected the local community and Declans friends and family.]

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On Sunday, Police confirmed the tragic passing of Declan.(Image: UKNIP)

"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."

Prior to his father speaking out, Declans family and friends have taken to social media to pay tribute to him with one posting: "Words cannot describe how utterly heartbroken we are... how life can change so fast, and in such a tragic way..."

One family member said: "My heart is so heavy and I dont have many words. May you rest in peace, my angel. I love you and I promise to carry you in my heart forever."

[Declan Sawyer]

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Declan's family and friends share tributes on social media(Image: UKNIP)

Another person wrote: "He was the funniest boy and he will be missed by so many. My heart is absolutely broken for you all and all his friends. He is a popular young man and will always be remembered. Love you all so much."

Police released a statement advising information on wellbeing and mental health support can be found via Mental Health & Learning Disability Services, while urging people not to speculate or share unverified information.

"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," the force said.

"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.

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