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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Dave Higgens

Community shares moving tributes to ‘popular and much-loved’ boy, 13, after drowning at UK beauty spot

Police were called to Leadbeater Dam on Lumb Lane, Halifax, just before 3.20pm on Bank Holiday Monday - (Humphrey Bolton/Geograph)

A 13-year-old boy, described as "popular and much-loved", has tragically died after getting into difficulty in a reservoir in Halifax.

Police were called to Leadbeater Dam on Lumb Lane just before 3.20pm on Bank Holiday Monday.

The teenager, understood to be Reco Puttock, was pulled from the water and rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A local rugby club, among those paying tribute, stated there are "just no words befitting for such tragedies" following the devastating incident.

King Cross Park Rugby League Club, in Halifax, said in a statement: “Yesterday we were informed of the devastating news that Reco Puttock, who played for our 2025 U13s, tragically lost his life.

“There are no words we can say which will make this loss any less painful for his family and friends especially at such a young age.

“So, on behalf of the entire club, we would like to extend our thoughts and condolences with his family, friends and team mates.

“Rest in peace young man.”

Police were called to Leadbeater Dam on Lumb Lane, Halifax, just before 3.20pm on Bank Holiday Monday (Humphrey Bolton)
Police were called to Leadbeater Dam on Lumb Lane, Halifax, just before 3.20pm on Bank Holiday Monday (Humphrey Bolton)

Another club, Kippax Welfare Rugby League, said on social media: “On behalf of everyone associated with Kippax Welfare we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, loved ones of Reco and everyone at King Cross Park ARLFC.

“There are just no words befitting for such tragedies, in times of unimaginable grief, rivalries and colours simply do not matter.

“Rugby league has lost one of its own and we grieve as one.

“RIP Reco, may you be forever remembered, loved and cherished in the memories of all those who’s lives you blessed.”

Lightcliffe Academy, in Halifax, also issued a statement which said: “We are deeply saddened by the death of one of our students, Reco.

“Reco was a popular and much-loved student who will be greatly missed by students, staff and our wider academy community.

“Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to his family, and all affected by this tragic loss at this incredibly difficult time.”

West Yorkshire Police said detectives are investigating but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances (PA Wire)
West Yorkshire Police said detectives are investigating but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances (PA Wire)

The school said support is available to students both now and as they return after half-term.

It said that information will follow regarding plans to pay tribute to Reco.

West Yorkshire Police said detectives are investigating but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances.

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