Search for boy, 15, missing in nature reserve lake

Jake Zuckerman/BBC

A 15-year-old boy who died in a lake in Lincoln will be “sorely missed” at his school, officials said in a statement.

Emergency crews were called to reports of the boy getting into difficulty at Swanholme Lakes at about 14:30 BST on Sunday.

Lincolnshire Police said a body was found after a search, and he was later named as Declan Sawyer.

In the statement, Priory City of Lincoln Academy said: “This loss is devastating and our entire Priory Lincoln learning community is grieving alongside Declan’s family and friends.”

Jessica Lane/BBC

It added: “Declan was a valued member of our academy and a loyal friend to many students. His presence and character in our academy will be sorely missed by staff and students alike, and his absence will be felt profoundly in the coming days, weeks and months ahead.

“At times like this, it is natural for students to experience a wide range of emotions. We want to reassure you that we are here to support every member of our community.”

Jake Zuckerman/BBC

Earlier, a police spokesperson said: “This is such a sad incident that will no doubt also affect many of Declan’s friends and the local community as well.”

Swanholme Lakes is a nature reserve and a nationally recognised Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Sunday was provisionally the UK’s hottest May day in 79 years, with the temperature soaring to 32C in Heathrow.

In Lincoln, the temperature reached about 25C, according to the Met Office.

Lincolnshire Police