The family of an 11-year-old girl who died in a country park have paid tribute to a “happy, adventurous and outgoing girl”.
Discovery in Gore Glen
Faith Curran was found dead in water in Gore Glen Woodland Park, near Gorebridge, Midlothian, at around 4.25pm on Thursday. Her family had reported her missing in the area at about 12.40pm, triggering a search and rescue operation.
Her body was discovered in Gore Water, near to Shank Bridge.
Family tribute
In a statement issued through Police Scotland, Faith’s family described her as a “happy, adventurous and outgoing girl who enjoyed life”. They also thanked those who assisted them with their search and paid tribute to their support and kindness.
Police confirmed Faith’s death is being treated as unexplained, but there are not believed to be suspicious circumstances.
Scene and response
On Friday, police maintained a cordon around paths which pass underneath Shank Bridge, with police tape blocking access along the walking route. The bridge carries the A7 road over the Gore Water. On the bridge above the river, a single bunch of flowers had been left tucked in the railings at the side of the road.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We were made aware of concern for an 11-year-old girl in the Gore Glen area, near Gorebridge, around 12.40pm on Thursday August 6.
“The body of the girl was found in the Gore Water near to Shank Bridge around 4.25pm.
“She was pronounced dead at the scene and her family are aware.
“Her death is being treated as unexplained and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”
The Gore Water river runs through the park, which is a beauty spot with views of the Pentland Hills to the south of Edinburgh.
A spokesperson for the Scottish Ambulance Service said: “We received a call at 2.33pm on Thursday to attend an incident in Gorebridge and dispatched two ambulances, our special operations team and a critical care paramedic to the scene.”
Community reaction
Colin Beattie, the MSP for Midlothian North, said: “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.
“This is a deeply distressing incident for the local community, and I know many people will be shocked and saddened by the news.
“However, with a Police Scotland investigation ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“I would urge people to respect the privacy of the family and their loved ones at this extremely difficult time, and to allow the police the space they need to carry out their inquiries.”
