Pal relives horror moment she tried to save Abbie Walton, 15, who died after getting into difficulty in River Etherow
THE friend of a girl who died after getting into difficulty a river has relived the horror of trying to save her.
Heartfelt messages have poured in since 15-year-old Abbie Walton's tragic death at the River Etherow in Broadbottom, Greater Manchester, on Wednesday.
The girl is understood to have got into difficulty in the water hours after the village's annual duck race and BBQ concluded.
Abbie's friend Mia relived the horror of trying to save her pal.
In a touching tribute on Facebook, Mia wrote: “Abbie I’m sorry I couldn’t help you.
"Listening to you scream my name is replaying in my head I tried hard to grab you but I couldn’t do anything more.
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"I love you so much angel, rest in peace."
Another devastated woman, Gill Macloud, who left a floral tribute at the scene, said she knew Abbie through her granddaughter Ellie.
The 57-year-old said: “She was a lovely girl.
“It’s terrible what’s happened.”
Ellie, 13, who went to the same school as Abbie, Copley Academy said: “We were really close and she used to come to my house all the time.
“Abbie loved her little sister.
“She was a really happy girl and never caused any trouble.”
More bereft pals have also told of their heartbreak over the teenager's death.
"Last night it wasn't like that. It's very strange. It shows that even when it's calm it can be a problem."
Another resident told of their heartache as 16-year-old Jack Pullen had died in the water nearby in 2016.
They said: "There are signs up but it doesn't seem to stop people coming down here. It's more dangerous than they realise."
Floral tributes at the scene included one from Jack Pullen’s family, which read: “Thinking of the family at this sad time so sorry for your loss.”
One local added: “There doesn’t seem to be as much activity down the river since Jack died.
“I can see why kids would want to go there on an hot day but it’s too easy to get into trouble and panic.
“My lads, who are 20 and 27, used to jump in when they were younger.”
A memorial sign with a photo of Jack hangs on a fence near the waterway.
It shows the date he died and adds: "Forever loved and always missed."
The message ends: "We urge you not to swim in open water."
Jack's inquest heard he had been walking in seemingly calm water at what is known as Broadbottom Rocks when he slipped and the current dragged him under.
His pals had jumped in to save him but he was washed downstream as he screamed for help.
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Speaking of Wednesday's tragedy, Detective Superintendent Rebecca Boyce said previously: “Yesterday evening’s events are nothing short of devastating and my deepest sympathies are with the loved ones of the girl who lost her life in such awful circumstances.
“Officers will continue to support the family during this incredibly difficult time.”