Boy of two drowns in river yards from home

A TWO-year- old boy drowned yesterday in a fast-flowing river just yards from his family home.

The toddler’s body was found in the water just over an hour after he was reported missing from the remote detached house.

It is believed he may have wandered out of the house near the tiny village of Bridge of Cally, in Perthshire, and walked the 150 yards down the hill to the River Ericht. Last night his heartbroken family were said to be ‘devastated’.

The boy went missing at around 11.15am yesterday.

A massive search of the rural spot included the Police Scotland helicopter, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and a water rescue unit. Neighbours also rushed to join in. But the youngster was found at around 12.35pm. He was treated by paramedics but was pronounced dead at the scene.

Last night, locals said the waters in the area were particularly fast at this time of year.

One resident said: ‘This is a desperately sad event. I have grandchildren of my own and it just breaks my heart to think about this. The whole community is devastated at the news.’

Police were last night yet to name the boy but neighbours said the family were well-known in the close-knit community.

The home is situated along a winding country road on a hillside. The area is a sporting estate popular for river salmon fishing and deer stalking and is near the Glenshee skiing area.

A police car last night sat blocking the path at a gate leading down to the home. Three bunches of flowers had been left there, including one that contained a small Lego figurine.

Conservative councillor for Perth and Kinross, Caroline Shiers, said: ‘Such sad news. My thoughts are with the family of the little boy.’

John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, wrote on Twitter: ‘Heartbreaking news from the River Ericht at Bridge of Cally. My deepest sympathies to everyone involved.’