Family 'struggling to accept loss' after 17-year-old stabbed to death

The parents of a teenager stabbed to death at the weekend have paid tribute to their "wonderful son".

Dale Bennett, 17, died following an attack in Midlothian in the early hours of Saturday following reports of a disturbance involving 20 youths.

His family last night told of their grief at his death, and revealed that the "passionate sports fan" had recently started an apprenticeship as a steeplejack with a local company.

Emergency services were called to Newbyres Crescent, Gorebridge, at about 2:20am on Saturday, where the teenager, from Mayfield, was found lying injured in the street. He was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where he died.

A 20-year-old man has been charged with his murder and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today.

In a statement last night the teenager's parents, Garry and Michelle, said: "He was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, uncle and nephew and was a very caring and loving person and we are struggling to accept he is no longer with us.

"Dale was an outgoing young man, extremely popular and lived life to the full. He was excited about his new job.

"Dale enjoyed being part of a loving family and was close to his mum to whom he could talk about anything and everything."

The statement continued: "A typical big brother, he used to torment his little sister Tiegan, but in reality he loved her with all his heart. He also had great affection for his girlfriend Nicole.

"Dale was passionate about sport, was a loyal Hearts fan and loved playing five-a-side at Newtongrange with his dad and older brother Gary. One of the highlights for him was playing in a charity football match with his dad and brother against the Hibs Legends."

A police spokesman said yesterday: "Lothian and Borders Police can confirm that a 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged with the murder of a 17-year-old youth in Newbyres Crescent, Gorebridge in the early hours of Saturday."