Benjamin brought so much joy

A HEARTFELT tribute has been made by the family of a teenager who drowned in the River Nith. Benjamin Glen, who was from Dumfries, had just celebrated his 18th birthday days before his death last Thursday evening. Emergency services rushed to a stretch of the river in the Kingholm Road area of town at about 6.50 pm after reports that he had got into difficulty in the water. Searches were carried out and Benjamin’s body was recovered later that night. Police say his death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal. Following the tragedy, his family have set up a GoFundMe page, which has already raised £1920. Writing on it, his devastated sister Abigail said the aim was to create “a lasting memorial for Ben that reflects just how loved he is”. She added: “It’s a place for anyone who knew him to be part of something meaningful. “He was a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a father, and a best friend. He brought so much joy to everyone who knew him. If you knew Ben, you knew that cheeky smile. It was the kind of grin that said he was up to something, and it never failed to make people laugh. He had a huge heart, a playful spirit, and a way of lifting those around him. He loved getting out and about, and Pokémon Go was one of his favourite ways to connect with people and the world around him.” However, the Glens were distraught earlier this week to learn of a scam page operating under his name. They have reported it and are asking that people only send donations to the official and original page. In a second blow, they were upset to find that a teddy left on the bridge over the river had been removed, along with precious family notes. A call was made to those who took the items to return them, with the perpetrators described as ‘sick’ and ‘vile’.