Renfrewshire buildings to light up in memory of teen who died

On July 25, Tweedie Hall once again playing its part in raising awareness of the importance of staying safe around water, after the initiative was inspired by the campaigning of William McNally’s family.

The 13-year-old from Johnstone tragically died on June 2, 2021, when he was swimming with friends at a section of the River Gryffe known as the Clay Pitts, when he got into difficulties.

Since the accident, the council has partnered with his family who have worked tirelessly to promote water safety following William’s death.

(Image: Renfrewshire Council)

The blue lighting forms part of Renfrewshire Council’s support for World Drowning Prevention Day, using prominent buildings across Renfrewshire’s towns and landmarks to promote a simple but vital message about staying safe around water while remembering those whose lives have been lost.

As families continue to enjoy the summer holidays, Cllr Innes and William McNally’s family are encouraging residents to take a moment to remember the importance of water safety and to have conversations with children and young people about the dangers of open water.

Sharron Drennan, William’s mum, said: “Every summer, we know that more people will be spending time around rivers, lochs and other open water, and that’s why it’s so important to keep talking about water safety. If sharing William’s story encourages even one person to think twice or make a safer choice, then that conversation could save a life.

"No family should ever have to experience the heartbreak that ours has. We would encourage everyone to take a few moments to learn about the dangers of open water, speak to their children about staying safe and never underestimate the risks, even on a warm summer’s day.

"We’re incredibly grateful that buildings across Renfrewshire, including Tweedie Hall in Linwood now, will once again be lit blue for World Drowning Prevention Day. Every blue light helps keep this message alive, remembers William, and reminds people that a simple conversation about water safety can make all the difference."

Cllr Robert Innes said: “It’s fantastic to see council buildings across Renfrewshire once again lighting up blue to support World Drowning Prevention Day. While this is a council-wide initiative, I’m particularly proud that Tweedie Hall is able to play its part in helping raise awareness here in Linwood now.

“The lighting at Tweedie Hall was installed so our community could visibly support this important campaign and many others around the year. The lights are inspired by the incredible work William McNally’s family continue to do in raising awareness and helping prevent future tragedies. They are ‘William’s lights’.

“We have had really warm weather recently and naturally young people gravitate towards our rivers in this weather. I would encourage people to take a few moments to familiarise themselves with water safety advice that could one day save a life.”