The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Pupils offered counselling
Tragedy: Support line in place after death of pupil at Stornoway school
A 24-hour confidential support line and counselling service has been set up for those affected by the tragic death of a 15-year-old pupil on the Western Isles.
The local council also said today that staff “did everything humanly possible” to save Anton Michael.
Anton from Great Bernera was found at the Nicolson Institute in Stornoway on Tuesday and later died at the town’s Western Isles Hospital.
Yesterday a statement on behalf of the Outer Hebrides Chief Officer’s Group for Public Protection expressed its sympathies.
It read: “The members of the Chief Officer’s Group wish to convey their heartfelt sympathies to the family of Anton Michael at this sad time, and would ask that their privacy be respected as they come to terms with their loss.
“The exceptional work done by staff from all agen- cies, especially school staff, is greatly appreciated by all. The staff were met with very difficult circumstances, but did everything humanly possible to save Anton.
“A 24-hour confidential support line and counselling
“Our thoughts at this time are with Anton’s parents”
service (01851 705600) is in place for anyone who may have been affected by Anton’s death and we would encourage everyone to use this service or other support services that may already be available to them.”
Pupils at the Nicolson Institute have cancelled their Christmas dance to mourn Anton.
The school’s seniors called off their annual Christmas dinner and dance.
The sixth year bash was set to take place before the school breaks up for Christmas next week.
But it is now expected to take place some time in the new year.
In a statement, the school’s rector Frances Murray, said Anton was a “lovely young man who was well regarded by staff and pupils”.
The teenager made a “very positive contribution” to the school and his death had affected all staff and pupils.”
Emergency services personnel were thanked for their efforts in trying to save his life.
The statement said: “Our thoughts at this time are with Anton’s parents, fam- ily and friends.” Western Isles Council and the school said it was “a tragic incident.”
Police Scotland said there were no suspicious circumstances and a report would be sent to the procurator fiscal.