A teenage boy from Stapleford found dead in a river at the weekend has been described as a “credit to his family”.
Josh Boothman, 13, is reported to have fallen into the River Erewash at around 3.40pm on Saturday.
Emergency services were called but Josh did not re-surface, and he was recovered from the river by Notts Police divers just after 5.30pm.
Friends of Josh have set up a JustGiving page for his family which has already raised more than £3,000.
Dozens of people have posted tributes online, including teachers at George Spencer School, Stapleford, where Josh was a year nine pupil.
In a statement the school said: “Josh was a lovely young man – always chirpy, positive and polite. He had impeccable manners and time for everyone – always asking students and staff alike how they were.
“He was a credit to his family, school and community. Outside of the classroom, he loved his youth club and enjoyed football.
“Josh will be sorely missed by everyone connected with George Spencer Academy. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
“We will be helping our students and staff to come to terms with the news today and offering them support in the days ahead. We will look at the best ways to honour Josh’s memory once everyone has had time to come to terms with the news.”
Josh is believed to have gone into the water close to Horace Avenue, Stapleford.
Google Maps image of the area of river where Josh was seen to go under the water.
Lynne Sansom, who set up the fundraising page, wrote on Monday: “Thank you so much for your overwhelming support and messages of sympathy – I will make sure they all get passed on to the family.
“Less than ten hours after setting this page up, we reached our £2000 target and donations are still coming in. The page will run for 30 days and all money received will go to Josh’s family who will also support charities close to Josh’s heart, so please keep sharing and donating.”
Lynne told Notts TV: “The response and support has been overwhelming – the community has really pulled together. I’m sure Josh’s family will greatly appreciate every donation and message of sympathy.”
A Notts Police spokesman said: “The force received a call at 3.42pm to say that a boy had not re-emerged at the surface after entering the water.
“Emergency services, including police, Fire and Rescue and the East Midlands Ambulance Service were at the scene within minutes.
“During a search of the river, the body was found shortly after 5.30pm.
“Enquiries to determine the circumstances of the incident are on-going.”
