THE family of a "one in a million" teenager who drowned in Loch Lomond last month have pleaded for lessons be be learned from his death.

Connor Markward, 16, died whilst playing with friends on Friday, July 23 at Balloch Country Park.

Now, his heartbroken family are calling for a safety campaign in schools to prevent any future tragedies.

His sister, Claire Lindsay, 35, told the BBC: "I never knew how dangerous Loch Lomond was. You don't understand until it happens to you.

"We are so heartbroken. He had a heart of gold."

Connor was one of seven people who drowned in the space of a week in Scotland in July - four of them in Loch Lomond.

Three people, including a nine-year-old boy, died after getting into difficult near Pulpit Rock on Loch Lomond the following day, while a seven-year-old boy was taken to hospital.

Claire added: "The morning of the incident, he was away to enjoy himself. He only gave me half a cuddle that time because he was in such a rush.

"I told him to be careful and he said he would call me later. I can't believe he walked out this door and never came back."

She admitted she was clueless on the safety advice for people who do get themselves into trouble in the water.

She said: "I never knew how dangerous Loch Lomond was. I think they should teach about currents and how deep the water is in nurseries and schools.

"I didn't even know until after Connor passed that when you get into difficulty you are not supposed to panic and you should 'starfish' in the water. If you get taught that… it could save people's lives."

Connor’s mum, Margaret Lindsay, explained how Connor was looking forward to the next chapter of his life when the incident happened.

She said: "It hits me every morning. He gave me a kiss on the cheek and a cuddle every day. I am missing his smile.

"The morning before he left for Loch Lomond, he was talking about college and setting up his first bank account. He couldn't wait to get his provisional licence and to drive."

Helensburgh Advertiser: Connor's mum, Margaret Lindsay speaking to the BBCConnor's mum, Margaret Lindsay speaking to the BBC

The 52-year-old also never knew about the starfish method. She said: "I had never heard you were supposed to do 'the star' to keep floating.

“I want more talks about swimming, learning to swim and awareness about the dangers."

The Scottish Government extended its sympathies to Connor's family and confirmed a meeting with emergency services had also been held to identify ways of reducing future fatalities.

West Dunbartonshire Council has since bought 15 items of safety equipment for Balloch Country Park following the deaths which are to be installed "as soon as possible".

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority confirmed changes following Connor's death.

Simon Jones, director of environment and visitor services, said: "Our deepest sympathies go to the families of Connor and all of the others who died so tragically in water-related incidents over the last few weeks.

"In the immediate term, we have stepped up our water safety advice on the ground and online and encourage everyone to take some time to read about the dangers of the water in the national park and share this with their friends and family."