‘Every day is a struggle’ Parents of teenager who drowned on beauty spot take on charity challenge in his memory

Charlie Noble’s parents are taking up the West Highland Way following his death in May.

The parents of a teenager who tragically drowned in an accident at a beauty spot are to take on a charity challenge in his memory.

Charlie Noble, 16, died after getting into trouble in the water while celebrating the end of his exams with his friends from Denny High School in Bracklinn Falls in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park on May 28.

The youngster was the 12th person to die in Britain from water-related incidents in the hot weather in May as temperatures soared. His parents, Tam Noble and Shelley Ferguson, are ready to walk the West Highland Way – and the heartbroken pair said their son “will be in our hearts every step of the way.”

They have started a fundraising page and the donations are shared between CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland) and SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) charities.

Writing on the page, the heartbroken mother said: “No parent should ever lose the heart of their child. Every day without Charlie is a struggle, and although we can never bring him back, we want to do something positive in his memory that can help other families and young people.”

“On 19 May 2027 we will be taking on the West Highland Way challenge in memory of Charlie, walking in his name, carrying him in our hearts every step of the way. We are raising money for two incredible charities that mean so much to the causes we want to support.”

The parents are hoping to raise £2,000 and have already brought in £265 in less than 24 hours after being set up.

Shelley added: “This challenge will be emotional, it will be tough, and there will no doubt be tears along the way. But we will continue to put one foot in front of the other for Charlie, for the families who need support, and for everyone who is fighting in silence.”

“Charlie, you should still be here, making memories, laughing with your friends and living your life. Instead, we will walk this journey for you, keep your name alive and our heartbeat in something that can help others. Forever 16. Forever loved. Forever our Charlie. Fly high, our beautiful boy. We will carry you with us every step of the way.”

Donations can be made via Shelley’s GoFundMe page.

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