Friends in ba lloon tribute to drowning victim (17)

LONGFORD teenagers let balloons off in tribute to tragic drowning victim Damola Adetosoye – with the teen’s school offering support for classmates.

Damola (17) is understood to have gotten into difficulty after jumping into Tarmonbarry Harbour, near the border of Roscommon and Longford.

The incident took place shortly after 5pm on Tuesday.

The teen had been out with friends enjoying the sunshine at the time.

The alarm was raised and a rescue operation was launched as locals scrambled in a bid to save the boy. A man who helped with the search from his boat eventually pulled Damola from the water.

Last night, friends of Damola (inset) gathered at the Longford Sport and Leisure Centre in Templemichael, and let off balloons in his honour.

Donations were also taken, with attendees encouraged to offer €5 each for Damola’s family.

“Damola has been taken from us too soon,” a friend said online.

“We must think about his family as they will need all the help they can get in this shocking time.”

Meanwhile, his school, Templemichael College, has opened its doors, despite being generally closed over the summer, to help those students affected by the tragedy.

“The school is available to all students at this time and we are putting supports in place,” a school statement read.

“We also wish to acknowledge the incredible support coming from the Longford community and in particular the Attic House, who will be open all week to help to support our young people.”

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The school paid tribute to Damola as a “very popular student” and “role model”.

“Damola will be remembered as a very talented, enthusiastic and hardworking student.

“He immersed himself in so many aspects of our school life and was always on hand to help out.

“Damola will also be remembered on the soccer field where his talents, skills and work ethic were also well known.

“He represented the school with great fervour, captaining school teams on many occasions.

“A fearless but fair competitor, Damola gained the respect of teammates and opponents alike,” it added.