Authorities in the United Kingdom have recovered the body of 16-year-old British-Nigerian Valentine Ikechukwu, who tragically drowned after getting into difficulty while swimming at Colwick Country Park in Nottinghamshire.

According to Nottinghamshire Police, emergency services were called to the park at approximately 5:20 p.m. BST on Wednesday following reports that a teenage boy had gone missing in the water. A coordinated response involving a police underwater search team and the fire service led to the recovery of Valentine’s body shortly before 8:00 p.m.

The young teen, who was previously a business student at Nottingham College, was described as a beloved son, brother, and friend. His family released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief:

"Valentine will remain in our hearts forever. He was a well-loved son and brother, and we are absolutely devastated as a family. Long live Valentine, forever 16. Words cannot describe what we are going through right now."

The family also noted that Valentine was well-liked among his peers and that they were still coming to terms with his sudden loss. “He will be forever missed,” they added.

Nottingham College, where Valentine was a student until earlier this year, also expressed deep sorrow at the news. A college spokesperson said:

"Our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly difficult time. He was a popular student whilst with us, and we have extended our full wellbeing support to his former classmates, who will be devastated to hear the news."

Police confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious and that a file is being prepared for the coroner.

Detective Inspector Gail Routledge of Nottinghamshire Police emphasized the tragic nature of the incident and issued a warning about the dangers of open water:

“This was a tragedy where a young boy has lost his life. Our thoughts remain with Valentine’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. While work continues to understand how Valentine came into difficulty, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the devastating consequences of entering open water—regardless of whether people do so deliberately or inadvertently.”

The tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with swimming in open bodies of water, particularly during the warmer months when such activities become more frequent.