Strong swimming teenager drowns in Moray

The body of 19-year-old Matthew Crosbie, from Forres, was discovered by police yesterday on the shore of Findhorn Bay, in Moray.

Mr Crosbie, who was a bartender, was last seen in the River Findhorn at well-known beauty spot Randolph’s Leap – an area near Forres that is known for its dramatic rocks, cliffs and waterfalls.

Days before the accident, the teenager had told how he was looking forward to visiting the river where he was swept to his death, writing on Twitter: “Looking forward to warmer days to go to Randolph’s Leap.”

Police said Mr Crosbie had been with friends when he decided to go swimming before getting into difficulties shortly after 4pm on Saturday.

A search-and-rescue helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth, the Coastguard, specialist police and members of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were all involved in the hunt.

A spokesman for Police Scotland described the incident as an accident.

He added: “The family are under a lot of stress and we are trying to help them the best we can.”

Eye witnesses said the river had been fast-flowing and in full spate at the time Mr Crosbie had gone swimming.

One said: “My parents saw him in the river – they couldn’t get to him fast enough to get him.”

A keen swimmer, Mr Crosbie studied sport and fitness at Moray College last year and was a bartender at Joanna’s Nightclub in Elgin.

According to his Facebook page, the teenager supported Celtic Football Club and enjoyed playing paintball with his friends.

Friends paid tribute to him on social media, with one co-worker, Jack Carpenter, writing: “Words cannot describe the pain I am feeling right now.”

Another friend, Ryan Johnstone, posted: “Tragic news. Thoughts are with his family. RIP Matthew Crosbie”.

Police last night issued a fresh warning about the dangers of swimming in or playing near rivers.

Inspector Paul McCruden said: “I would like to remind the public of the significant dangers posed by rivers, especially in the aftermath of rainfall: the currents are very strong, unpredictable and the water is often very deep.

“You can get swept away very quickly.

“Our firm advice is do not be tempted regardless of how strong a swimmer you are. Do not jump in or swim.”