TRIBUTES have been paid to a young soldier who died in the River Foss in York last week.

Signaller Stephen Charles Fry, 20, was based at Imphal Barracks in Fulford but was originally from Surrey, and served with 2 Signal Regiment - the same regiment as Tyler Pearson, who died in the River Ouse in York last year.

Signaller Fry entered the river late on Wednesday, July 8, sparking hours of searches by police and the Yorkshire and Humber Marine Underwater Search team.

Following the deaths of three young people - Megan Roberts, Ben Clarkson and Tyler Pearson - early last year, City of York Council allocated £100,000 for new lifebelts, extra fencing, and other improvements.

His body was recovered on Thursday afternoon, and his family travelled from Surrey to York to identify him and be supported by specially trained officers.

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Hargreaves, Commanding Officer of 2 Signal Regiment, said the thoughts and prayers of the regiment were with Signaller Fry's family.

He said: "Signaller Fry arrived at 2 Signal Regiment in York last year having qualified as a Communications Systems Operator.

"He was keen and enthusiastic from the start and his early potential was rewarded with advanced technical training to operate the Army's newest communications system, Falcon, as well as the Bowman radio system.

“He approached every military challenge with confidence, intelligence and good humour. Having made a great start in the Royal Corps of Signals, he had the prospects of a fine career ahead of him.

“A hugely popular soldier, everyone in the Regiment will miss him."

Signaller Tyler Pearson was 18 when he died in the River Ouse in April last year, just two weeks after arriving at Imphal Barracks for training.