Girl, 12, who died in River Leven named by police

A young girl who died after getting into difficulty in the River Leven has been named.

Ava Gray, from Alexandria, was pronounced dead after being recovered from the water in West Dunbartonshire on Sunday.

The 12-year-old aspiring dancer was with two friends when the three of them got stuck in the river near Balloch Bridge at around 6.45pm.

Two of the youths, one boy and one girl, managed to get themselves out of the water and an extensive search for Ava was launched.

She was discovered by emergency services just before 10pm.

Tributes have been paid to the Lennox Primary School pupil who has been described as a kind and popular child.

The school’s headteacher said: “The school and whole community are completely devastated by this tragedy and our thoughts are with Ava’s family and friends.

“Ava always had a smile and kind words to say and was popular with staff and fellow pupils. She will be greatly missed by us all.”

And a spokeswoman for West Dunbartonshire Council said: “We would like to extend our sincere sympathy to Ava’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

“Help and support will be offered to any pupils in our schools who need it following this tragic event.”

Her dance teacher Holly Douglas paid tribute on Facebook.

She said: “Words can’t describe the way I feel, Ava we all love you so so much you will never be forgotten at Full Out you will always be part of our team and our family.

“The world is a cruel place thinking of all the family right now.”

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.