Former clubs plan tribute to Scottish teen footballer after tragic death

Liam Scott fell into the water at the Falls of Clyde on Thursday, but could not be saved.

The former clubs of a talented teenage footballer who died in an accident on Thursday are planning a tribute to his memory.

Liam Scott, died after falling into the water at the Falls of Clyde, near Lanark.

Emergency services tried to rescue the 18-year-old, but his body was later found near Corra Linn on Friday.

Now, Bellshill Athletic FC club secretary, Brian Closs, has told The Scotsman that he was in contact with Hamilton Accies in the hopes of organising a tribute to Liam “at the end of this season.”

He said he hoped to include the Holytown Colts and the Jerviston Blues, both of which were also in Liam’s footballing life.

In a statement, Bellshill Athletic FC said: “Everyone connected with the club were devastated to hear the news yesterday of the tragic accident which has claimed such a young life.

“Liam Scott was only with us for last season but had such an impact on and off the field.

Liam in action at Auchinleck in 2019. Credit: William Wood

“Thoughts and Prayers are with Willie, Pauline, Lara, Harry and all of his extended family and friends at this very sad time. Rest in Peace.”

Hamilton Accies FC also paid tribute to Liam, telling followers on social media that: “The club are dreadfully sad to learn of the untimely passing of Bellshill Athletic FC player Liam Scott, 18, who was in our Academy for 6 years before leaving last summer.

"He tragically died on Thursday evening. Our thoughts are with his family & friends just now."

Since then dozens of people have expressed their grief and condolences to Liam’s family.

“Absolutely devastated and heartbroken,” one former teammate wrote, “A fantastic lad on and off the field. Was a pleasure to play alongside him. Rest easy mate.”

Another person added: “A superb football players & brilliant young man. Thoughts and prayers to all his family and friends. RIP Liam.”

Police Scotland have launched an investigation into Liam’s death, and said they would be submitting a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

Chief Inspector Lex Baillie, Area Commander for South Lanarkshire, said: “I can confirm that the body of an 18-year-old man has been recovered from the water at Falls of Clyde in Lanark yesterday (Friday, 19 June, 2020).

“His next of kin have been made aware and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

“The man was reported to have fallen into the water at the Falls of Clyde in Lanark around 8.05pm on Thursday, 18 June, and a search was conducted by emergency services.”

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