Heartbroken pals of two boys who died after getting into difficulty in the River Tyne have today released hundreds of balloons in their memory.

Newcastle teenagers David Radut, 14, and Aras Rudzianskas, 13, had been playing close to the water in Ovingham, Northumberland on Saturday, May 18 when tragedy struck.

Rescue services were immediately sent to the area and a major operation was launched.

The Northern Echo: Colourful balloons released for Aras Rudzianskas, 13, and David Radut, 14.Colourful balloons released for Aras Rudzianskas, 13, and David Radut, 14. (Image: NNP)

Sadly, David Radut passed away at the scene. Aras Rudzianskas was still alive when he was pulled from the water and was taken to hospital. He tragically died three days later, on Tuesday, May 21.

On Monday (May 27) hundreds of balloons were released into the air at Blakelaw Field, off the A167 Ponteland Road in Newcastle, as a touching tribute to the pair.

The Northern Echo: Colourful balloons released for Aras Rudzianskas, 13, and David Radut, 14.Colourful balloons released for Aras Rudzianskas, 13, and David Radut, 14. (Image: NNP)

Around 500 grieving friends and family gathered at 5pm for the emotional tribute.

Their families previously released pictures of the two teenagers and floral tributes were left at the scene of the incident in Ovingham, near Prudhoe.

The Northern Echo: Aras Rudzianskas.Aras Rudzianskas. (Image: Northumbria Police)

The Northern Echo: The area of the Tyne where the two boys got into difficulty.The area of the Tyne where the two boys got into difficulty. (Image: North News)

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The Northern Echo: David RadutDavid Radut (Image: Contributor)

Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, of Northumbria Police, said last week: “Our sincerest sympathies go to the loved ones of both boys and we will continue to provide whatever support we can at this devastating time.

“Since Saturday (May 18) our thoughts and those of the wider community have been with the families and friends of those affected.

“We would ask that the public continue to respect the privacy of the families both online and in the community.”