Friends of a teenager found dead in an Aberdeenshire woodland will hold a fundraiser in his memory.
Liam Smith went missing in November last year, sparking a massive three-month search.
The 16-year-old’s body was found in a remote woodland near Banchory late last week, leaving his family and friends heartbroken.
Classmates at Westhill Academy have decided to hold a non-uniform day to raise money for Missing People UK in the “hugely popular” teenager’s memory.
Pupils can wear what they want to school on Friday in exchange for a donation to the charity, which works to bring missing people back together with their families.
Although the event was planned before Liam’s body was found, pupils and his family want the fundraiser to proceed as planned.
Thousands of people got behind the search for Liam, either by sending messages of support or going out to look for the teen in the Crathes area where he was last seen.
As confirmation of his death emerged, there was a further outpouring of support for his devastated loved ones.
‘Our hearts are broken’: Family and friends pay tribute to tragic Liam Smith
And on Saturday, a candlelit vigil will be held in Aberdeen to bring those people together.
Hundreds of people have already showed interest in attending the gathering, which will take place at 8pm near the water fountain on Aberdeen’s Broad Street.
A two-minute silence will take place at 8.15pm.
Meanwhile tributes for the keen footballer have continued to flood in, while floral tributes at his school are growing.
A statement from Youth Football Scotland (YFS) said: “Liam played with Westhill Academy, Dyce Boys Club, Banks O’Dee Albion, Culter YFC, Glentanar Community Football Club and Westdyke Community Club.
“Everybody YFS has spoken to within the grassroots football community has spoken extremely highly of Liam.
“He was as hugely popular person at each of these clubs, and will be sorely missed.”
Police are not treating his death as suspicious.
If you are struggling and want to talk, Breathing Space is a free, confidential service which can be contacted on 0800 838 587.
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