Heartbreak as schoolboy, 14, who died while swimming in river is pictured – with parents telling of ‘unimaginable loss'
Police scrambled to Beccles Quay, off Fen Lane, in Suffolk, just before 7.30pm on Wednesday after concerns for the safety of a teenager in the water.
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The schoolboy had entered the River Waveney with friends but had not resurfaced, said cops.
Despite the efforts of onlookers, emergency services and of members of the public, the youngster - named locally as Nischay Patel - tragically died at the scene.
Ketan and Praptiben Patel, owners of Tabers Newsagents in Beccles, have now paid tribute to their son Nischay in a Facebook post following the tragedy.
Their heartbreaking statement read: "We are deeply grateful to the Police, Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service, East of England Ambulance Service, and HM Coastguard for their swift and compassionate response during this incredibly painful time.
"Our heartfelt thanks also go out to the wonderful people of Beccles and those from across the country who have shown us so much kindness, love, and support.
"The outpouring of sympathy—from kind words and beautiful flowers to thoughtful gestures—has brought immense comfort to our family.
"We would especially like to thank Sir John Leman High School, Thirst Youth Hub, the Beccles Community UK Facebook page, and the local newspapers for their continued support and compassion.
"This loss is unimaginable, and as we grieve, we hold close the love of our friends, family, and customers.
"Your compassion has touched our hearts more deeply than words can express.
"To everyone who has supported our family—particularly the emergency services and those who went above and beyond—please accept our sincerest gratitude.
"As we take time to process this tragedy, we kindly ask for privacy and space, knowing your continued support surrounds us."
His death has devastated the town, with dozens of flowers and cards left both at the quay and outside the family shop.
Richard Crozier, 80, a friend of the family who runs a neighbouring shop, said it had been a "terrible tragedy".
'Nischay was a special person. He had a capacity for friendship across generations," he told Eastern Daily Press.
'He wasn't a boy of great numbers of words but he was a very tender-hearted lad.'
Barry Darch, mayor of Beccles, said: 'Beccles is a tight knit community and I'm sure the whole town is in grief.'
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