Tribute paid to 14-year-old Nischay Patel after body recovered from River Waveney in Beccles

A family has described their loss as ‘unimaginable’ as they pay tribute to a 14-year-old boy whose body was recovered from a river in a Suffolk town.

Nischay Patel, a student at Sir John Leman High School, in Beccles, died on Wednesday evening after emergency services were called to Beccles Quay, off Fen Lane, just before 7.30pm.

He entered the water with friends but did not resurface.

His parents, Ketan and Praptiben Patel — owners of Tabers Newsagents in Market Street — paid tribute to their son in a message of thanks on social media.

They said: “This loss is unimaginable, and as we grieve, we hold close the love of our friends, family, and customers.

“Your compassion has touched our hearts more deeply than words can express.

“To everyone who has supported our family — particularly the emergency services and those who went above and beyond — please accept our sincerest gratitude.

“As we take time to process this tragedy, we kindly ask for privacy and space, knowing your continued support surrounds us. From the bottom of our hearts — thank you.”

The family also expressed their gratitude to the people of Beccles and those from across the country who have offered messages, flowers and other acts of kindness.

They thanked Sir John Leman High School, Thirst Youth Hub and the Beccles Community UK Facebook page for their support.

A police spokesperson said the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file with be prepared for the coroner in due course.

Funeral details will be shared in the coming days and the family has invited the community to join them in remembering Nischay’s life.