Tributes have been paid to a teen who lost his life in a ‘tragic accident’ in Lanzarote last week.

David Alexander, 18, passed away after being rushed to hospital following an incident whilst on holiday.

The former Vale of Leven Academy pupil was also known in and around Clydebank due to his involvement with Dalmuir’s Golden Friendship club, described as a ‘very popular young man’ amongst the charity.

Founder Jim McLaren took to Facebook to break the heartbreaking news to members.

He wrote: “Hi everyone, this is a picture of one of our members of Golden Friendships.

“18-year-old David Alexander.

“Sadly, David lost his life in a tragic accident this week in Lanzarote.

“David was a very popular young man who loved being part of our club. His aunt Angela told me it was like a second home to him and brought him great friendship and happiness.

“On behalf of Golden Friendships, we would like to offer our condolences to David's family at this sad time.”

David had recently started an NQ in Computer Game Development at the City of Glasgow College and the education hub paid tribute to the youngster.

A City of Glasgow College spokesperson said: “We are profoundly saddened by the awful news that David has passed away following an accident on holiday.

“We send our deepest condolences to David’s family and friends at this desperately sad time and our professional staff are on hand to provide wellbeing support to any of our students affected by this tragedy.”

In August, David was featured in an article in our sister title the Dumbarton and Vale Reporter, where he spoke about how excited he was to start his new college course after leaving school as a champion pupil.

He was awarded the Base Champion award in 2021 and was the first pupil to be awarded the Excellence in Maths Award for his commitment to learning during the pandemic.

Matthew Boyle, Head Teacher at Vale of Leven Academy, said: “We are all very shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic and untimely death of our former student.

“David was a much-loved and respected School Base Champion Award 2021 winner, who was popular with his peers and all of our teachers and support staff.

“David’s family and friends are very much in our thoughts at this very difficult time.”