The devastated family and friends of a teenage boy who tragically died at a popular Scottish beauty spot gathered for a poignant balloon release in his memory on Saturday. Charlie Noble's body was recovered near Bracklinn Falls near Callander last month.
Community Tribute
The Red Hoose pub in Denny organised the tribute to Charlie and asked people to bring red, white, and blue balloons “to remember a very well loved young man.” The event took place at Dunipace Gala Park in Denny.
A post on the pub’s Facebook page stated: “It’s in such heartbreaking times that you realise just how amazing our wee community is. Charlie’s family have been completely overwhelmed with the amount of love, kindness and empathy shown to them this past week and will need it even more as time goes on.”
The pub also offered its function room free of charge for those seeking a quiet space to gather, with tea, coffee, and biscuits provided. One local woman responded: “This is such a lovely thing to do. It is heartbreaking, lovely to see his friends and family come together as he was a very popular young man with many of his friends struggling with the news including my granddaughter.”
Friends' Tributes
Following the balloon release, one of Charlie’s friends wrote on social media: “Today was about you, now rest easy char, everyone misses you so much and you had the best send off. Will miss your stupid jokes and your laughs. We all love you and you’ll never be forgotten.”
Emergency crews rushed to Bracklinn Falls after the alarm was raised around 6:45 p.m. on May 28 due to concerns for a person. Charlie’s body was later recovered from the water. Police stated that his death is not being treated as suspicious. A report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal following the incident at the waterfalls on the Keltie Water near Callander in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
Fundraiser and Support
A fundraiser was set up for Charlie’s family “to help them out as much as possible and to properly celebrate Charlie’s life,” as he was “so loved and made such an impact on everyone,” according to the GoFundMe page. The campaign has nearly reached its target of £18,000. Numerous tributes have also been posted online following the tragic death. Tam Noble changed his profile picture to a lovely photo of his son shortly after the incident.
Friends and family took to social media to share their condolences. Sharee Aitchison said: “Every parent is crying with you Tam. My heart goes out to you. My doors always open. The best dad you were, Tam.” Danielle Dani wrote: “Absolutely heartbroken for you Tam. Thoughts are with you and the family, sending lots of love. Charlie was a lovely boy and that was all down to you pal.”
Mother's Heartfelt Message
Charlie’s devastated mother, Shelly, urged friends who were with her son on the day he drowned not to feel guilty. She said: “I hope this gets back to all the kids that were there that day, please, please don’t feel any guilt. We don’t blame anyone, it was just a horrible accident. You kids please take care feel free to contact me at any time if you need a chat or a adult school teacher, anyone you can talk to. I’m so happy he had good pals, you are the best.”
