A 13-year-old boy who entered a lake in Leicestershire on Thursday has been formally identified after his body was recovered by police divers. Hayden Jones-Powell's parents have paid a heartfelt tribute, asking for him to be remembered for his "big smile" and his love of football and animals.
Emergency services were called to Meynell Lake, located off Fosse Way in Syston, at approximately 13:30 BST on Thursday following reports that a teenager had entered the water. Police divers subsequently located and recovered Hayden's body from the lake later the same day.
In a statement released by his parents, Ben Jones-Powell and Emily Ambler, they expressed their profound grief, stating, "The world isn't the same without him." They highlighted Hayden's "amazing sense of humour" and quick wit, adding, "We don't know how we will cope without him." A fundraiser has been initiated by the family, with his aunt, Charlotte Powell, explaining it is to give Hayden "a befitting send-off." Ms Powell also conveyed the family's immense gratitude for the community's support.
Friends of Hayden are organising two balloon releases in his memory. The first is scheduled for Saturday at around 12:30 in Central Park, Syston, with a second planned for the following Saturday in Mountsorrel. Wreake Valley Academy in Syston, where Hayden was a pupil, issued a statement expressing their devastation at the loss of one of their students, extending their deepest condolences to his family and friends. The school confirmed it is providing support to students, staff, and families affected by the tragic accident.
Leicestershire Police confirmed that Hayden's family is receiving support from officers. A spokesperson added that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, and a file will be prepared for HM Coroner. This tragic event occurs amidst a period of unusually hot weather across the UK, which has unfortunately seen a number of water-related fatalities in recent weeks, including other young people across England and Scotland.