The devastated parents of a 15-year-old boy who was discovered deceased on his family’s farm in Cumbria have shared a heartfelt tribute to their beloved son.
Will Pedley was reported missing on August 27, and sadly, his body was found the next day on the family farm in Barbon, near Kirkby Lonsdale. Authorities have confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his passing.
His grieving family has now commemorated their ‘cherished son’, expressing that his sudden departure will create ‘a significant void in their lives’, according to the Manchester Evening News.
In a statement, they said: “William John Pedley. We are at a loss for words. William was our cherished son, also known as ‘Will’. He was a dearly loved older brother to his siblings, a beloved nephew, a cousin, and a dear friend to many.”
“His absence has left a huge gap in our lives and in the lives of all those he brought joy to in his fifteen remarkable years, but he will forever reside in our hearts.”
On August 28, law enforcement issued an update confirming: “Efforts to locate missing 15-year-old William Pedley have unfortunately led to the discovery of a body, found earlier today in the Barbon area. William’s family has been notified.”
“At present, the incident is not being treated as suspicious. The police extend their gratitude to all who shared the missing person appeal and to the partner agencies and members of the public for their support in the search efforts.”
A spokesperson for the National Farmers’ Union Cumbria conveyed their condolences, stating: “Our heartfelt thoughts are with County Vice Chair and Uplands Representative Richard and his family. Truly heartbreaking news.”
In a touching gesture, over £13,000 has been raised in honor of Will for Papyrus, a charity dedicated to preventing youth suicide in the UK.
For those in need of support, assistance is available through various helplines including NHS 111, Samaritans at 116 123, Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) at 0800 58 58 58 (5pm to midnight daily), and Papyrus – prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247 at 0800 068 41 41 or via text at 07860 039967.