Tributes to kayak tragedy student

Simon Fletcher was killed when his boat became trapped under rocks on Wednesday.

Emergency services could not reach the 19-year-old at the scene in Perthshire because of the fast-flowing water.

His body was recovered 28 hours later when rescuers broke up the vessel.

Simon, from Stockton on Tees, was part of a group of kayakers from the Cleveland-based Tees Tigers club. He and his twin brother, Matthew, are understood to have been in the England under-21 squad.

A slalom event due to be held on the river was cancelled as a mark of respect.

Mr Fletcher was a first-year mechanical engineering student at Northumbria University in Newcastle.

A university spokesman said he was a popular student who would be greatly missed.

He said: "We are deeply saddened by Simon's death and our thoughts are with his family and friends.

"Simon was talented and friendly. He was popular with both fellow students and course tutors and will be greatly missed.Tributes to kayak tragedy student"Our condolences and support go to his family and friends at this very difficult time."