Tributes paid to teenage boy who died after getting into canal

Tributes have been paid to a 'darling' and 'special' teenager who died after getting into a canal during the weekend heatwave.

Police said Preston McNally, 16, entered the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in Burnley at around 4pm. on September. However, emergency services were called after he failed to return to the surface.

Officers searched for the boy for around three hours until his body was removed from the water, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Family and friends have paid tribute to Preston - describing him as a ‘special boy’ and how important he was to them.

Sister, Lauren Saddington posted on social media stating: "Oh my darling boy. My heart is broken. You didn’t deserve this and our family didn’t deserve this. You were so loved and you made every person laugh so much!

“It was only days ago you chipped your front tooth (I’ve heard you still had four girls around you). I am so sorry you have been taken from us, I’m sorry for us all but especially your mum and dad and my dad too.

"Your sisters, your aunties, your cousins, your nannies…we’re all going to miss you so much. My heart aches and I don’t know how we will ever come to terms with losing you. Forever 16 and forever in our hearts. Preston McNally. Love you always… from your biggest sis x."

Mimi Heys said: “Couldn’t imagine what your family are going through, God bless sleep tight lad this world is cruel. Keep hold of your family tight. R.I.P Preston Mcnally you are going to be miss a lot thinking about your family and Cambridge lads."

Lucy Victoria posted: "Sending love to Georgia McNally and the rest of his family. There will only ever be one Preston McNally.