Messages of heartbreak have been left at the scene where a popular 13-year-old boy was swept away amid extreme temperatures.
Floral tributes and hand-written notes to Robert Hattersley from Crawcrook have been left near by the River Tyne following the incident on Sunday.
One heartwrenching message left by friends earlier this week said they "tried to save" him but "couldn't hold on anymore."
It comes as Robert's school, parents and the community have been paying their respects in the aftermath of his death.
Just beneath Ovingham Bridge, near Prudhoe, loved ones have been leaving heartfelt messages on the rocks where he entered the water.
A handwritten note, attached to a bunch of flowers, reads: “Robert, we are totally devastated. We tried to save you but couldn't hold on anymore.
“We are heartbroken. Sleep tight bro. Damon and Josh.”
Touching messages on the stones near the water’s edge include: ‘See you soon baby’, ‘Fly high handsome’, and ‘Your family love you so much! RIP.’
Another handwritten note attached to flowers reads: “I can't believe you have left us!
“We will always be thinking of you, always in our thoughts!
“Remember to keep shining for us, but you grew your wings and we weren't ready.
“Sleep tight Robert.
“I love and miss you so much, until we meet again. Love Laura.”
Robert was a pupil at Thorp Academy in Ryton and had previously attended Emmaville Prime School in Crawcrook where staff and pupils are raising money to support his family.
His former headteacher Avril Armstrong said: “We send our love to Robert's family and we hope that they will receive comfort and support from those that live in this community."
A tribute released through Northumbria Police, Robert’s family 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 condolences."
Read more: Pictures as County Durham community remembers much-loved music teacher
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