PEOPLE in Helensburgh and Lomond, and beyond, have rallied round a local family following the sudden death of a teenager from Rhu.

Aaron Boyde, a pupil in S6 at Hermitage Academy, died last Friday, and tributes have been paid to “a most exceptional young man”.

More than £8,000 has been donated to an online fund-raising appeal set up for the family by Aaron’s uncle, Derek Izatt.

Writing on the GoFundMe page, Derek said: “On Friday, February 26, a most exceptional young man was tragically taken from the world.

“Intelligent, insightful, and inspiring, Aaron was the brightest star on the darkest of days and loved by his family and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

“We would like to raise funds for Aaron’s funeral and any other additional expenses that may be incurred by his family during this difficult time.

“Please help us give Aaron a suitable farewell.”

In a statement, the family thanked everyone who tried to help Aaron, including friends, family, paramedics and police.

They said: “Thanks also for the support from friends and family, and for the outpouring of love and support from the community. It has been a huge comfort.

“That support has been like a light during the darkest of days.

“Aaron was very much loved by all his friends, family and teachers.

“He was brilliant, intelligent, funny and shy.

“He had a beautiful smile and will be immensely missed by everyone who knew him or encountered him.”

As this article was published on Friday morning, £8,436 had been donated to the fund-raiser to support Aaron's family.

In a post on social media, family friend Gemma Penfold said: “This weekend brought us the most devastating news I have ever heard.

“Our beautiful friend’s teenage son tragically left this world and joined the angels, where he can be at peace.

“As you can imagine, his family are heartbroken, as are we for them.

“He was a beautiful, bright, wonderful boy with a future full of possibilities. He will deeply be missed and never ever forgotten.

“Rest easy beautiful boy, you are in a better place now but your family and friends will miss you terribly.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Police were called around 6.30pm on Friday, February 26, 2021 following the sudden death of a 17-year-old man at a property in Ardenconnel Way, Rhu, Helensburgh.

“Officers attended and there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

“A report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.”

To donate to the fund-raiser, visit gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-aaron-boyde.

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