The teenage boy who died in a Rotherham reservoir lost his life trying to save his friend who had got into difficulties, a family friend said.
Sam Haycock didn't think twice when his pal, also 16, began struggling in the currents of Ulley Reservoir on Friday afternoon even though he couldn't swim.
The 16-year-old had just finished his last day of high school.
Theresa Glenn has set up a gofundme page to raise money, and with the permission of Sam's parents Simon and Gaynor told YorkshireLive how the tragedy unfolded.
The area is a popular one with swimmers, walkers and picnic-goers - especially when the weather is warm - though Theresa said it's unclear how well the tragic teen knew that particular reservoir.
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She said: "There were three boys including Sam who jumped in and tried to save his friend. It is typical of him, he and his mum would do anything for anyone who needed help.
"Obviously, they are absolutely distraught about what has happened but Gaynor is proud of what he tried to do and will treasure that detail for the rest of her life.
"It was his last day at Oakwood High School and they told each other: 'I love you' as he left their home in East Dene. It was completely out of character for him as he's a 16-year-old boy!
"She told him to be back for 4pm and didn't know where he was when he went missing but the police were round very quickly to inform them of what had happened and Simon identified his son.
"I have known Sam since he was four years old and he was a cheeky chappie with lots of friends. He just wanted to be liked and we will never forget him," Theresa added.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed officers were called to concerns about a teenage boy at the reservoir at around 3pm yesterday.
Specialist teams launched a huge search for the youngster, with locals urged to avoid the area while the rescue personnel carried out their work.
Police cordoned off the site as fire crews and life boat teams assisted the search effort.
A diver was seen entering the water at the reservoir and police later announced the tragic news that a body had been found.
In her gofundme profile, Theresa wrote: "A good friend of mine tragically lost her son today.
"I have set this gofundme up to show how us as a community and me as a friend will support you all through this heartbreaking time.
"I've known Sam from being at least five years old. The first smile I had from him was when I took him a PG Tips monkey up which he had been wanting for ages.
"He loved me from then onwards So many tears and smiles shed today. Let's show this local family love and support through these difficult days. Going to miss telling you off, Sam. RIP beautiful boy."
You can visit the gofundme page for Sam here.
