A 17-year-old boy drowned in an open water incident during what was dubbed as the 'UK's hottest weekend of the year'.

       The teenager, identified as Ronalds Abele, was swimming at Wellingborough embankment in Northamptonshire when he got into difficulties.

       Despite the swift response of emergency services who recovered his body from the River Nene and rushed him to hospital, he was pronounced dead.

       The police confirmed this afternoon that the teenager died after getting into difficulty near the blue bridge. Emergency services, including police, paramedics and fire crews, were alerted just after 1.45pm on Friday following reports of someone struggling while swimming in open water.

       A specialist unit was involved in the recovery of the boy, who was then airlifted to Northampton General Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

       A Northamptonshire Police spokesman said: "A 17-year-old Wellingborough boy has tragically died following a drowning incident in the town. Police, paramedics and fire crews were called just after 1.45pm yesterday after reports a teenager had got into difficulty swimming in open water at the Embankment.

       "Firefighters from Rushden and Irthlingborough and a specialist unit from Mereway recovered the boy and he was airlifted to Northampton General Hospital where, sadly, he was pronounced deceased. Police have today named the teenager as Ronalds Abele. This was a tragic incident and Ronalds' family have requested privacy at this very distressing time."

       Tributes have been pouring in online for the well-liked teenager.

       One person commented: "Will be sadly missed by all so caring and supportive mate and always brought a smile to people's faces."

       Another added: "So very sad thinking of him, his friends and family at this heartbreaking time."

       Yet another said: "We will miss your beaming smile Ronalds, you were such a kind gentle lad always ready to help. Thoughts are with all your family and friends at this saddest of times."

       Another wrote: "Prayers of comfort to Ronalds' mates who were with him, the first responding team, and especially to his family. Saddened for his family."