Scores of moving tributes have been paid to a teenager who died after getting into trouble in the River Tees.
Anas El-Rafai, from Darlington, was last seen shortly after 5pm on Monday and a major search operation was carried out by emergency services to look for the missing 15-year-old.
However, his body was found at around midnight. Durham Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious.
Now tributes are pouring in for the youngster, who was described by his parents as "popular" and a "fit and healthy young man". His family said they were devastated by his death.
Meanwhile, flowers were left in remembrance to the teenager near a stretch of the River Tees. A note on one bouquet read: "RIP. God Bless You. Fly high with the angels."
Many others have paid their condolences on the ChronicleLive Facebook page, describing Anas as a "lovely boy" and "bonny lad".
One woman wrote: "RIP young man. My sincere condolences to you all."
Another added: "This is just heartbreaking. RIP young man."
One message said: "My thoughts to the family and friends of this poor lad. Fly high young un."
And another note read: "Fly high in paradise young lad."
Many more messages have been left on Durham Constabulary's social media channels.
One said: "Poor bairn. No parent should have to bury their child. Heart goes out to them. RIP fella."
Another added: "Devastating. He was only beginning life’s journey. Another diamond in the sky, RIP. Love and heartfelt thoughts to his family and friends."
