An inquest has been launched following the tragic death of a 12-year-old boy who drowned in a Lancashire river during last month's scorching heatwave.
The youngster, whose full name was given as Graham Junior Slater and is recorded in court documents as being from Leyland, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, while swimming in the River Ribble near Ribchester.
Emergency crews were alerted at approximately 2pm after Junior encountered difficulties in the water. A massive search operation was mounted and his body was discovered roughly six hours later, reports Lancs Live.
An inquest into Junior's death commenced at Preston Coroners' Court today (Thursday June 11) coinciding with the day of his funeral. Area Coroner Kate Bisset stated: "Junior and his friends entered the water and Junior was observed to get into difficulty. All the children attempted to assist him. Police were called. Sadly Junior was found underneath the water at 7.24pm."
The court was informed that Junior was born in Preston and resided in Galloway Close in Clayton-le-Woods. A final inquest will take place on September 18 at Preston Coroners' Court before Assistant Coroner Richard Taylor.
Junior, from Clayton-le-Woods, was among 19 individuals who lost their lives in water during the May heatwave. Merely four days following Junior's death, a woman in her 60s perished at Thornton-Cleveleys while attempting to save her dog from the sea.
Junior was a former pupil at The Blessed Sacrament Catholic Primary School in Ribbleton, where he remained fondly remembered by staff members. His previous headteacher, Miss Kelly Hannah, spearheaded tributes to the youngster, characterising him as a "bright spirit" whose presence made an enduring mark on the school community.
She said: "It is with deep sadness that we remember one of our former pupils, Junior Slater, who tragically passed away yesterday. Although he left our school last year, his cheeky smile, warmth, kindness, and bright spirit left a lasting impression on both staff and students. Junior will be remembered for his smile, friendships, and the joy he brought to those around him. Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with his mum and wider family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. As a school community, we stand together in remembering a young life taken far too soon."
Following his passing, Junior's family released a tribute stating: "Our little blue-eyed boy. He will be truly missed. He was the life and soul of our lives. Words can't describe how we are feeling right now. We will forever love you Junior."
Greenlands Club on Chatburn Road in Ribbleton is preparing to stage a weekend of fundraising activities to support Junior's family, kicking off with a six hour entertainment marathon on Saturday, June 13, commencing at 12 noon. Throughout the afternoon, the event will showcase musical acts and performances.
