POLICE were last night attempting to piece together the final steps leading up to the tragic death of six-year-old Alan Lock in a Suffolk river.

Russell Claydon

POLICE were last night attempting to piece together the final steps leading up to the tragic death of six-year-old Alan Lock in a Suffolk river.

Witnesses to the terrible accident in Sudbury have been interviewed by officers who have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the currently “unexplained death” on Tuesday night.

Alan had been on a Beaver Scout trip accompanied by adults when the nightmare situation unfolded. Accounts of his last moments before he ended up in the River Stour by Ballingdon Bridge were being drawn up yesterday as police continued to hunt for clues.

Meanwhile, the bubbly youngster's headteacher paid tribute to him saying he will be sorely missed.

Diana Bonnar, head of Acton Primary School, said: “The death of a child is always an extremely sad occasion but the totally unexpected death of Alan is tragic and our hearts go out to his family and friends.

“Over the coming days, weeks and months we shall continue to comfort and support the children at Acton Primary School along with their parents.

“Alan was a happy, popular boy who mixed well with the other children in his class.

“He was a sensitive boy with a lovely sense of humour and we shall all miss his happy smile.”

She added: “What has come through as a school is we are an extremely strong community and we have a wonderful set of colleagues.”

Scores of emotional messages were left on flowers at the scene of his death and posted on the East Anglian Daily Times website as the local community struggled to come to terms with his loss.

One from an Emma Byrom said: “Sharon, Alan & Adam, We are so so very sorry and sad to learn of Alan's tragic and sudden death. Daisy loved Alan and has many happy memories particularly at playgroup. Nothing I can say will make any difference to your pain. We are completely devastated and sending you many many hugs of love and sympathy. Xxx”

Another poster, Graham de Max, wrote: “I can think of nothing worse than this, and no words from anyone can really help. But I would like to tell you that I am thinking of you, I'm sure along with many thousands of parents who cannot conceive of how you must be feeling. May you come through this one day and live as a loving, happy family again.”

Anyone with any information about the river incident is asked to call Suffolk police on 01473 613500.