TRIBUTES have poured in for a young boxer who died after drowning in a river in Cheshire.
Frank Varey, 16, was considered a future star of the sport and had already competed in championships for his country.
Frank Varey was a 16-year-old a boxer from Blackpool.
Prior to his death, he was considered one of the sports up and coming stars and was set to be selected for upcoming European and World competitions.
According to England Boxing, Frank had already represented his country at the European Junior Championships 2019 in Galati, Romania - winning several National Championships titles.
He was described as the “life of the gym" who “lit up the room.”
Frank tragically died after drowning in the River Dee, Cheshire at around 2.30 pm on Thursday 22, 2021.
Footage posted to Frank's social media showed him arriving at Chester's riverfront with his mates – amid record high temperatures.
Videos showed the lads jumping into the water before police were later called to the scene as reports emerged that a teen was missing in the water.
In a statement, Chester Police said: "Police searching for a missing teenage boy in Chester have found a body.
"The 16-year-old was reported missing at around 2.30pm on Thursday 22 July after he disappeared while swimming in the River Dee.
"Extensive searches have been taking place throughout the afternoon and into the evening. Search teams found a body in the river shortly before 8pm.
"Formal identification has not yet taken place but it is believed to be that of the missing boy.
"The teenager’s family have been informed and they are being supported by specially trained officers."
Following news of Frank’s tragic death, tributes flocked in from across the boxing world for the “future star.”
Professional World heavyweight champion Tyson Fury said: “RIP Frank. Was a future world champ.”
Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell MBE also paid tribute to the young star: "RIP Frank Varey.
"Rest well champ, thoughts with all your friends and family."
Rhoose Boxing Club, where Frank would train with his dad every summer, also added their condolences stated that they were “sad to say goodbye to one of England boxers. “
England's Boxing Talent coach John Stubbs said: “Frank was a larger than life character.
“No boy should lose their life at 16. This is a sad day for the boxing community and my thoughts are with big Frank and the family.”
Fellow England Talent coach Shiney Singh added: “Absolutely heartbroken even writing this. The absolute bundle of life Frank Varey taken from us.
"Only yesterday he was in the gym looking a million dollars and there was no doubt in my mind that he was going to smash the Euro selections.”
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