Tributes paid to 'beloved' Edinburgh teen Andrew Mackinnon who collapsed and died while playing football

Tributes have been paid to a schoolboy who collapsed and died while playing football at an Edinburgh school.

Andrew Mackinnon, 15, passed away shortly after 3pm on Tuesday afternoon on the pitch at Forrester High School.

The teenager is understood to have had a history of heart disease, and previously underwent cardiomyopathy surgery.

Andrew, who played for Salvesen Community Football Club and was a Hearts fan, leaves behind his two sisters, his father, mother and stepdad.

His family have been left devastated by the loss, and paid tribute on Wednesday by putting his jersey up behind the goalpost at Forrester High.

The youngster played for Salveston Community Football Club. Supplied

His sister Aimee told STV News he was “beloved” by all.

She said: “He was beloved by his family and friends. His memory will forever march on with us all, and he will never be forgotten – always our number 16 in football and forever 15.

“Fly high beautiful boy, we love you so much.”

An online fundraising page has been set up to support the family, and has already raised more than £16,000.

The GoFundMe read that he died 'doing what he loved'. — The GoFundMe read that he died ‘doing what he loved’. Supplied

The GoFundMe page reads: “He was a lovely, caring boy and adored his family. A few years ago Andrew went through massive surgery – he’s [sic] was the strongest lad and powered through life with the biggest smile on his face.

“On behalf of the family we have set this go fund me up to take as much pressure of the family as we can at this hard time.

“We pass our love onto you all and Andrew will forever be the brightest star in the sky.”

Tributes have been paid to the youngster. Supplied

His football club, Salveston, also paid tribute writing: “Everyone connected with the club would like to pass on our love and thoughts to Andrew’s family.

“Andrew will be missed enormously, not only was he a very talented footballer, he was also a great teammate and a wonderful young man.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Andrew RIP.”