Colleagues hail 'gifted lad' as man appears in Edinburgh court over teenager's alleged murder

The colleagues of a teenage outdoor activities instructor who died after being found injured on an Edinburgh street have hailed him as a “gifted lad who had so much more to give”.

Lewis McCartney was found with serious injuries on Viewcraig Street in the Dumbiedykes area of the city at around 3.45am on Sunday, February 12.

He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh but died a short time later.

Bailey Dowling, 19, from London, made no plea when he appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, accused of the murder of the 18-year-old.

Lewis was a trainee instructor at the Bridge 8 Hub and Paddle Cafe. Bridge 8 Hub and Paddle Cafe via Facebook

Tributes have since flooded in, with Lewis’ former employers, the Bridge 8 Hub and Paddle Cafe, saying he “had so much more to learn and give”.

The outdoor activity company wrote on Facebook: “We are truly gutted to hear of the death of young Lewis McCartney on Sunday, February 12.

“Lewis was a great trainee instructor last season and was extremely well liked by his teammates at Bridge 8 Hub. I know they’re going to miss you.

“He was so gifted, he could make his mountain bike fly had so much more to learn and give. Our thoughts go out to his family at this time.”

Kirsty Stembridge, who worked with Lewis, added: “So sad to hear this. Lewis was a great wee lad to work with at Bridge 8. So much skill and potential.

“Condolences to all of his family and friends.”

Bailey Dowling was remanded in custody and will appear again in court within the next eight days.