The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Tributes have been paid to a 14-year-old South Holland boy who died at the weekend.
The family of Holbeach teenager Alex Buchan have described him as a “gentle, kind boy, who would help anyone.”
Alex’s father, who is also called Alexander, paid tribute to his son who died after police and paramedics were called to a house on Fleet Street in Holbeach in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Mr Buchan (60), a company director, last saw his son on Friday evening.
“Alex was such a gentle, kind boy, he really was,” Mr Buchan said.
“He was so loving and helpful, he would help anyone, and he was loved by all his family.
“This has come as such a shock.”
Mr Buchan said he could not comment further on the circumstances of his son’s death as it was being investigated by the police.
The cause of Alex’s death has not yet been confirmed. The family of University Academy Holbeach student Alex Buchan are raising money to go towards the teenager’s funeral.
“As most of you know, our beloved Alexander sadly passed away at the awful age of 14,” says the Gofundme charity web page. “As a family we are trying our hardest to raise as much money as possible to give our boy the best possible send off.”
The emergency services, including an air ambulance, attended an address in Fleet Street in the early hours of Saturday morning.
A police statement said officers were called to the property where a 14-year-old boy had been found dead.
A 15-year-old girl and two 19-year-old men were arrested on suspicion of drug-related offence and have been released on bail and investigations are continuing.
Police have not officially named Alex, but he has been identified widely across social media.
Along with donations totalling more than £1,300, a series of tributes have been left in memory of Alex.
A post on Facebook from his sister Beth Donnelly says:
“My gorgeous baby brother. I never thought I’d ever have to say goodbye to you.
Alex Buchan
“The sweetest boy I know with a heart of gold, I’m sorry I wasn’t by your side. I should’ve been.
“My biggest regret is not telling you I love you one last time. Know I always loved you with my whole heart.
“Thank you for being the best brother a girl could ever have. Rest in peace handsome.”
No details have been released by the authorities but the coroner has been involved and there will be an inquest into Alex’s death.
The family said the money raised will go to make Alex’s funeral the ‘best possible send off he deserves.’
Lesley Mackenzie, one of the donors, said: “Alex will always be remembered by me as a quiet, kind lad with a smile on his face. A tragic loss.”
Another comment, from Jo Berry reads: “To a wonderful, kind caring and special lad who made our lives all the richer for knowing you.
“A good and genuine friend, we miss you dreadfully Alex but you will be forever in our hearts.”
To contribute to Alex’s funeral fund, visit https://bit.ly/2KD9li3
Alex Buchan
