Community members have shared moving tributes to a 13-year-old boy described as "popular and much-loved" after he drowned at a beauty spot in West Yorkshire.
Police were called to Leadbeater Dam on Lumb Lane in Halifax just before 3.20pm on Bank Holiday Monday. The teenager, identified as Reco Puttock, was pulled from the water and rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Rugby Club Pays Tribute
King Cross Park Rugby League Club, where Reco played for the under-13s team, expressed their devastation. In a statement, the club said: "Yesterday we were informed of the devastating news that Reco Puttock, who played for our 2025 U13s, tragically lost his life. There are no words we can say which will make this loss any less painful for his family and friends especially at such a young age. So, on behalf of the entire club, we would like to extend our thoughts and condolences with his family, friends and team mates. Rest in peace young man."
Another club, Kippax Welfare Rugby League, also offered condolences on social media: "On behalf of everyone associated with Kippax Welfare we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, loved ones of Reco and everyone at King Cross Park ARLFC. There are just no words befitting for such tragedies, in times of unimaginable grief, rivalries and colours simply do not matter. Rugby league has lost one of its own and we grieve as one. RIP Reco, may you be forever remembered, loved and cherished in the memories of all those who's lives you blessed."
School Remembers Student
Lightcliffe Academy in Halifax also issued a statement: "We are deeply saddened by the death of one of our students, Reco. Reco was a popular and much-loved student who will be greatly missed by students, staff and our wider academy community. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to his family, and all affected by this tragic loss at this incredibly difficult time."
The school confirmed that support is available to students both now and when they return after half-term, and said further information will follow regarding plans to pay tribute to Reco.
West Yorkshire Police said detectives are investigating the incident but do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances.
