DETECTIVES investigating the death of six-year-old Alan Lock have carried out anniversary checks at the riverside spot from where he was pulled from the water.

Russell Claydon

DETECTIVES investigating the death of six-year-old Alan Lock have carried out anniversary checks at the riverside spot from where he was pulled from the water.

Passers-by were stopped at the old railway line bridge passing over the River Stour in Sudbury a week after the tragedy and asked if they had seen anything at the time of his death.

Two placards have also been put up at the site to jog walker's memories of the critical times between 6.30pm and 8pm on Tuesday, June 16.

After a post mortem examination proved inconclusive, police investigations are continuing into how the Beaver Scout lost his life while out on an organised nature trail with the Acton and Waldringfield branch.

The youngster died at the West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St Edmunds, after he was pulled from the river.

A police spokeswoman said it will now be for the coroner, and not the police investigation, to determine the exact cause of death.

She said of the checks on Tuesday: “A small presence was down there to walk along the route and speak to anyone they came across. The DCI had said his main focus is speaking to the children and adults who were there at the time.

“The post mortem did not come up to a definitive conclusion and we are awaiting the results of further tests.”

She added: “How he came to die will be for the coroner to determine.”

It has also emerged that the family may not be able to make funeral arrangements for another eight weeks while more tests are carried out.

A week on from the incident which shocked the local community poignant tributes are still being left on the bridge known locally as 'Seven Archers Bridge', just off Quay Lane.

The parents have hung a Leeds United shirt, by a balloon, emblazoned with the message: “To our gorgeous little star. You will be with us forever in our hearts. Love and miss you always - Daddy and Mummy xxxxx.”

Dozens of fresh bouquets of flowers have also been laid, some with gifts, including one from Alan's grandparents reading: “Darling Alan, 12 red roses, each one filled with love. We know you're looking down on us from the sky above. Sleep tight our little angel, Nan and Grandad xxx.”

A spokesperson for west Suffolk coroner's office said last night they have yet to receive notification about an inquest.