A fundraiser has been launched to help the family of the tragic teen

Money has started to pour in for the devastated family of Doncaster youngster Mackenzie Swift after police recovered a body in the search for the 11-year-old missing in the River Don since Saturday.

More than £1,500 has already been raised for the family of the Mexborough-boy in a matter of hours since police recovered a body from the river shortly before 11pm last night.

Fund organiser Dale Coles said on the fundraising page, which you can donate to here - https://www.gofundme.com/f/mckenzie-swift

“We’ve decided to set up a GoFundMe for Mackenzie.

“I’m having tons of messages asking how people can give something or donate to the family in this absolutely horrendous time.

“To lose their boy must be the worst feeling in the world - and then on top of that comes the massive cost of having a funeral for him.

“So in light of this and the tons of messages from the community, we thought this might help with anything they need.

“So please even if it’s only £1 you can donate, every little helps the family through this horrendous time.”

Mackenzie was last seen going into the water near Ferry Boat Lane in Mexborough at about 8pm on Saturday.

South Yorkshire Police said extensive searches, including an underwater team and Mountain Rescue volunteers, came to an end shortly before 23:00 on Monday.

A force spokesperson said while formal identification had yet to take place, Mackenzie's family had been informed and had been offered specialist support.

Mackenzie is the 17th person in the UK known to have died after getting into trouble in open water during the recent hot weather.

Meanwhile, Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team, which was involved in the search for Mackenzie has issued a statement paying tribute to the youngster.

A spokesperson said: “Our thoughts, heartfelt condolences, and deepest sympathies are with Mackenzie's family, friends, school community, and everyone affected by this tragic loss.

“Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team was proud to work alongside South Yorkshire Police and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and specialist underwater search teams as part of a coordinated multi-agency response.

“We would like to thank all those involved for their professionalism, dedication, and support throughout this difficult incident.

“We are particularly grateful for the kind words expressed by South Yorkshire Police recognising the contribution of our team members.

“Every member of Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team is a volunteer, giving up their time, often at short notice and at any hour of the day or night, to assist those in need.

“We would like to thank the local community for their support, understanding, and respect throughout this incident, allowing all those involved to carry out their work with dignity and sensitivity. Rest in peace, Mackenzie.”