Tragedy as 12-year-old Lachlan dies after tree plunge on holiday

A NORTH-EAST boy has died after falling from a tree while visiting relatives on the west coast of Scotland.

Lachlan MacKenzie, 12, who hailed from Muir of Fowlis outside Alford, was fatally injured after the incident at Fullarton Park Woods in Troon.

Emergency services were called to the park but the Alford Academy pupil died at the scene.

A police spokesman said: “Around 3.20pm on Thursday, a 12-year-old Lachlan MacKenzie from Muir of Fowlis, Aberdeenshire, was seriously injured after falling from a tree in Fullarton Park Woods, Isle of Pin Road, Troon.

“Emergency services attended, however, he died at the scene.

“There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.”

Lachlan had recently started school at Alford Academy, and head teacher Moira Milne said the school and community would be shocked by his death. She added: “We are deeply saddened by this news.

“Lachlan had settled into his first year at Alford Academy very well and this will come as a huge shock to the school and wider community. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Margo Stewart, who represents the Huntly, Strathbogie and Howe of Alford ward, expressed her condolences.

She said: “I did not know the boy, but my sympathy goes out to his family. He was away on holiday doing what he loved with his relatives.

“As a mother, my heart goes out to the family.”

People took to social media to pay tribute to the youngster.

Val Thain said: “So sad, what a shame, thoughts are with his poor family and friends at this awful time.”

Vicky Thomson described it as “absolutely devastating”.

“My sympathy goes out to his family. He was away on holiday doing what he loved with his relatives”

Lachlan MacKenzie