An 11-year-old girl who died after falling into a river at a Scottish beauty spot has been named as Faith Curran. She was reported missing in Gore Glen Woodland Park near Gorebridge, Midlothian, at around 12:40pm on Thursday August 6, prompting a large police-led search. She was found in the Gore Water river near Shanks Bridge several hours later.
Death treated as unexplained
Police say her death is being treated as unexplained, though not suspicious, with enquiries ongoing. Faith leaves behind her father Joe and younger brother Jude, and had been due to start high school.
The local community has rallied round the family to help raise funds for her funeral. Family friend Rebecca Campbell revealed that Joe had been left "broken" by his daughter's sudden death.
Community fundraiser
She said: "After speaking with Joe, neighbours, friends and family have decided to set up this gofundme page in memory of Faith. Sadly Faith passed away suddenly as the result of a tragic accident while out exploring with family & friends."
"Faith was 11 years old about to start her next adventure into high school, she was a happy adventurous little girl and has been taken far to soon. Leaving behind her dad Joe, and little brother Jude. As a community we aim to raise as much funds as possible to help the family at this heartbreaking time. Whether it be for funeral costs, a memorial or even for Joe and Jude to have some time away in the coming months."
"We ask that you give no matter how little it may be, any fundraising you can do in faiths memory would be much appreciated and on behalf of Joe and his family he is terribly grateful. Lets help give Faith the send of she deserves or help a broken dad let some stress of his shoulders."
Family tribute and fundraising target
In an earlier statement issued through Police Scotland, Faith's family, who live locally, described her as a "happy, adventurous and outgoing girl who enjoyed life". A GoFundMe page set up in memory of the schoolgirl has raised £2,500 towards a £4,000 target.
The Gore Water river runs through the park, which has views of the Pentland Hills to the south of Edinburgh. Colin Beattie, the MSP for Midlothian North, said previously: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of a young girl at Gore Glen Woodland Park. My thoughts are with her family, friends and all those affected by this heartbreaking loss."
