ALMOST £6,000 has been raised for the family of a teenage boy whose body was pulled from a Renfrewshire reservoir.

Ben Thomson, 14, was found in Glenburn Reservoir, in Paisley, last week following a major search involving Police Scotland’s dive and marine unit.

Heartbroken friends and members of the local community have since been rallying round to help Ben’s family with funeral costs – and have now raised almost double their £3,000 target.

A memorial is also to be held for the avid football fan at his school, Gleniffer High, to allow everyone who knew him to say their goodbyes.

Organisers have asked people to release red, white and blue balloons, representing the colours of his favourite team Rangers, as well as lighting candles.

Ben’s older sister Kymberley posted pictures of them together and told how she may never get over the tragedy.

She said on social media: “I am heartbroken. I doubt I’ll ever get over this shock but I want to say a huge thank you to everyone for their messages and help so far.

“Here’s to my wee bestie.”

Emergency services launched a search operation after receiving reports that Ben, who was from Glenburn, had gone into the water at the site near Braehead Road on Tuesday, July 17.

It is thought Ben was swimming with a pal when he got into difficulty.

He leaves behind his parents Sharon and Barry, as well as sisters Sophie and Kymberley.

Police said a post-mortem examination would be arranged to establish the exact cause of death but it is not being treated as suspicious.

Lisa Chalmers, headteacher at Gleniffer High, said everyone at the school was devastated by news of Ben’s death.

She added: “Ben Thomson was a well-liked, friendly and caring pupil who always greeted you in the corridor.

“Ben was due to start his fourth year of secondary school in August. As well as succeeding in academic subjects, Ben was a talented footballer, achieving extra-curricular awards.

“Ben comes from a loving and close family and our thoughts and prayers are with his parents and sisters. Pastoral support will be available at the school for pupils.”

Provost Lorraine Cameron, who also represents Glenburn on Renfrewshire Council, said: “This is the worst thing that can happen to a family. My thoughts are with them and all of Ben’s friends during this terribly sad time.

“Glenburn is a close-knit community and I know everyone is already rallying around the family to give the support they need.”

The memorial will take place on Saturday at 10am and Ben’s funeral will be held at Woodside Crematorium at 11am on Wednesday, August 1.