The funeral of a 16-year-old boxer who died after getting into difficulty while swimming in a river will take place today.
Frank Varey, was a popular teen and a promising young boxer who fought for Sharpstyle ABC in Blackpool and had a glittering future ahead of him.
The 16-year-old was reported missing at around 2.30pm on Thursday July 22 after he disappeared while swimming in the River Dee.
Extensive searches were carried out throughout that afternoon and into the evening, but sadly, search teams found a body in the river shortly before 8pm.
At the time, Superintendent Myra Ball said: “Sadly this is the second river death that we have seen this week in the county.
"This appears to be another tragic accident and our thoughts are with the boy’s family at this very difficult time.”
In his short youth career Frank won five national championships and six international titles, representing England at the European Junior Championships 2019 in Romania.
In a tribute to Frank, his parents, brothers and sister said: “We are devastated beyond words, Frank was a legend in the boxing world and in life.
"May our Young King live on forever.
"We request for the privacy of Franks family to be respected at this difficult time."
Frank's funeral will take place in Morecambe with police advising people that due to his popularity, a lot of attendees are expected with some travel disruption anticipated.
A spokesperson for the police said: "The funeral of 16-year-old Frank Varey will be taking place in Morecambe on Thursday August 5.
"Please note that, as a lot of attendees are expected, there is the potential for some travel disruption in the area.
"We anticipate that there will be increased traffic between junction 34 of the M6, along the Bay Gateway, Westgate/Westcliffe Drive in Morecambe and Heysham Road in Heysham between 10am and 2pm.
"We have been liaising with the family and we will be monitoring traffic in the area on the day.
"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Frank at this difficult time."
Posting on their Facebook page after Frank's death, Larches and Savick Boxing Academy in Preston said: "Such sad news. Our thoughts are with Frank's loved ones at this time.
"We are honoured to have had Frank train with us at Larches and Savick.
"He had a great talent and was a lovely lad.
"May he rest in everlasting paradise."
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