The family of Lewis Michael Kirkpatrick, who tragically died in the River Eden, have paid an emotional tribute to their ‘kind, caring and funny son’.

Cumbria Police confirmed last week that Lewis’ body was found on May 27, following an extensive multi-agency search operation.

The search operation commenced after it was reported that he and three other teenage boys had got into difficulty in the River Eden near Rosehill, Carlisle, on Friday, May 26.

Following the tragic loss of their son, Nichola and Paul Kirkpatrick have described Lewis as always having a ‘cheeky and infectious smile’.

They said: “Lewis was the baby of the family and his death has left a gaping hole that can never be filled. Lewis was a loving son, brother of Kyle and Nathan, grandson, nephew, cousin, uncle, friend, and boyfriend of Kiara.”

The family have expressed their gratitude to the emergency services and agencies that helped in the search for Lewis and, in particular, the member of the public who risked his own life to try to help the boys.

The family said that they are overwhelmed by all of the messages of support that they have received. They would like to say a huge thank you to all of the Carlisle United and Stockport County fans for their moving tribute to Lewis at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Nichola and Paul would also like to draw attention to the danger of rivers and how in the warm weather, the water may look inviting but can be deadly. They said: “We don’t want any other families to suffer the same, awful loss.”