The family of a Scots teenager who drowned in Loch Lomond say that lessons need to be learnt from his death.
Connor Markward, 16, died near Balloch Castle Country Park on Friday July 23 while enjoying a day out with his friends.
Connor’s bereaved family are now wanting to prevent any future tragedies by advocating for safety campaigns in schools.
His sister, Claire Lindsay, 35, said: "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."
Oblivious to the dangers of the water, he became one of the seven people who drowned in the space of a week in Scotland in July.
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."
The older sister added that she was clueless on what those who find themselves in trouble in the water are meant to do.
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 he was looking forward to the next chapter of his life.
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."
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.
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 & The Trossachs National Park Authority also confirmed changes following Connor's death.
The RNLI say there are five steps to know how to float:
- If you fall in the water, fight your instinct to thrash around
- Lean back, extend your arms and legs
- If you need to, gently move them around to help you float
- Float until you can control your breathing
- Only then, call for help or swim to safety.
Find out more about the RNLI's "float to live" campaign.
