The family of a teenager who died after playing in a river with friends have urged people to think about water safety. Jake Smith over the May Day bank holiday weekend after getting into difficulty in the River Thames at Lechlade on Thames, Gloucestershire.
In a statement released by police, his loved ones said: "We unfortunately lost Jake in a tragic accident. The support and messages we have received have been overwhelming and shows the love that people had.
"Jake will be missed by all his family and friends. We would like to thank the emergency services, the community and especially The Riverside (accommodation, bar and restaurant) for their kindness and support. Although this was a tragic accident, we urge people to stop and think before they jump into the river."
Jake, 17, from Swindon, was with a group of friends on Sunday evening when he entered the water and did not resurface. Some of those who were with him entered the water to try and find him and emergency services attended. A body was recovered from the water by police divers on Monday.
"At this time his death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner," a Gloucestershire Police spokesman added.
