A HEADTEACHER has paid tribute to a teenager who died while swimming at a bathing spot.

Colin Dodds, 16, was with two friends in the River Wear at The Batts, in Bishop Auckland , when he got into difficulty at about 5.15pm on Saturday.

A large rescue operation, involving police, specialist divers, mountain rescue volunteers and three helicopters, was launched, but Colin’s body was recovered from the bottom of a deep pool in the river at about 4.20am on Sunday.

Jackie Gent, the headteacher at Bishop Barrington School, in Bishop Auckland, where Colin recently studied for his GCSEs, said: “It is rare to find a young man who was genuinely loved by everyone around him. Colin Dodds was a lively boy who always had a smile on his face and a genuinely warm sense of humour.

“Our whole school community is shocked and saddened by his tragic death.

“It is a testament to Colin that already his friends from year 11 are leaving messages on their closed group on Facebook. Without exception, these show how much he will be missed by us all.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with Colin’s family and friends, and we will continue to offer them our support at this very difficult time.”

Police said his friends raised the alarm when Colin, of Douthwaite Road, on the town’s Woodhouse Close estate, struggled to reach the bank before disappearing under the water.

A post-mortem examination is expected to be completed in the next few days.

Friends are continuing to pay tribute to him on Facebook.

Courtney Maddison posted: “Gone but never ever forgotten.

Colin Liam Dodds was one of the nicest lads walking these streets. He could make anyone smile and would do anything for anyone.

“I’ve known this lad since we were bairns, and knowing you have gone is a heartbreak.

My thoughts go out to your family. You will be the brightest star in that sky. All my love Colin RIP xxxxx.”

Brogan Thomas said: “RIP Colin. You were one in a million.

I’m never ever going to forget you. Thinking of your family. I’ll never forget the memories we had together.

You didn’t deserve to go.

Sleep tight. Love you x.”