TRIBUTES have been paid to three teenagers who died in a horror crash on a Scots road.
Fergus Ward, Lewis Knox and Jordan Cameron tragically lost their lives in a crash on the A830 between Mallaig and Arisaig on Thursday night.
FacebookLewis Knox has been named as one of the teens who tragically lost his life[/caption]
FacebookFergus Ward also died in the horrific accident[/caption]
FacebookJordan Cameron died in the crash[/caption]
fORT wILLIAM fcA minutes silence was held at Fort William FC’s match[/caption]
FacebookFort William has been rocked by the tragedy[/caption]
The three boys, all from Fort William, all died at the scene.
Their deaths have shaken the Highland town and left a community in mourning.
Scores of tributes were paid to them after locals learned of the tragedy,
Lewis and Fergus both played for Fort William Shinty Club, who led the tributes.
In a heartbreaking message on their Facebook page, the club said: “It is with great sadness that our community has lost three young local men this week.
“Our deepest heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Fergus, Lewis and Jordan at this very difficult time.
“Fergus Ward and Lewis Knox were both regular members of FWSC, developing right through the youth ranks and were an integral part of the current u17s squad.
“Both boys have deep family connections to the club. Four of the Knox brothers have played for the club throughout the years, with Alan being the current first team co-manager.
“Fergus’ grandad Peter Black was club president for many years and gave over 30 years service to FWSC.
“The boys will be greatly missed by their families, friends and the wider community. May they rest in peace.”
The team will also hold a minutes silence at a game against Caberfeidh today, which they decided will go ahead to honour the boys.
They added: “After much consideration, it has been decided that the best way to honour the boys is to come together and play the scheduled games today.
“There will be a minute silence carried out prior to both the 1st and 2nd team games. We hope that we can do their memory proud and honour them on the shinty field.
“If you feel able, we would love to see you down at the club today to share the love of the game that the boys had. Take care everyone, and our door is open for anyone who needs us now and in future.”
Cops searching for answers
Cops are continuing to probe the tragic crash which claimed the three young lives.
Inspector Donnie MacKinnon said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the people who died as a result of this crash.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances, and I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash and hasn’t already spoken to officers to get in touch.
“I would also appeal to anyone who was in the area and who may have dash cam footage which could assist to contact us.”
The whole community is rallying around to support locals with the shock and grief of the tragedy.
A banner reading “RIP Fergus, Lewis and Jordan” has been placed on a fence outside the Lochaber Leisure Centre in the town.
Flowers have also been left as a tribute to the teens.
Fort William FC are also hosting a minute’s silence during their game with Clachnacuddin FC II.
Lochaber MSP Kate Forbes said: “I’m deeply sorry to hear of the tragedy on the A830 near Lochailor.
“It is devastating beyond words. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected.”
First Minister John Swinney added: “Deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of three young people in a car crash near Arisaig.
“My thoughts are with their families, friends and the whole community at this heartbreaking time.”
Lochaber High School is also offering counselling to youngsters in the wake of the tragedy.
A message from the school said: “We are deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in our community. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone affected at this very difficult time.
“Moments like this can feel overwhelming, and it is natural for young people to respond in many different ways. Please remember that no one has to go through this alone.
“The boys will be greatly missed by their families, friends and the wider community. May they rest in peace.”
Fort William Shinty Club
“Our Guidance team will be the first point of contact for pupils who may need someone to talk to, and they are here to listen with care and kindness.
“They can also help guide families towards additional support where needed.
“From Monday September 1, a number of local services will also be available to provide extra support in school for our young people, parents, carers, and staff.
“This includes organisations such as Lochaber Hope and Archie’s Child Bereavement Service, who will be offering drop-in sessions within the school for anyone who may wish to access them. We will share more details of the available support with our young people during Monday’s assemblies.
“If you feel your child, or you as a parent or carer, would benefit from support, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Guidance Teacher. We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure you and your family feel supported and cared for.
“In times of sadness, the strength of our community shines through the compassion and kindness we show each other. Please know that we are here for you and your children.”
Local community centres and churches have also opened their doors inviting in anyone who needs help.
Other shinty teams from across Scotland have also joined in paying tribute to the boys.
Among them was Kilmallie Shinty Club, who said: “We, along with the whole shinty world, stand with our neighbours across in An Aird today as they respond to the horrific tragedy that has affected our whole community following the tragic road accident near Arisaig on Thursday night.
“Our thoughts first of all remain with all the immediate families of the three fine and talented young men taken in the prime of life.
“We know many of our own club family are deeply impacted by such devastating news and are mourning the loss of close friends and family members.”
Fort William FC added: “It is with deep sadness that we share our heartfelt condolences following the recent loss within our local community of young teenage lads, Jordan, Lewis and Fergus, who sadly lost their lives this week.
“The thoughts of everyone at Fort William Football Club are with their loved ones, friends, and the community affected during this difficult time.
Jordan was apart of our Title Winning Under-18 side last season, and was a major part of the team as they lifted the trophy at the end of the season.
Jordan was such a terrific footballer who came through our youth system for many years, who has also played for our reserve side in the West Highland League.”
Jordan’s former coaches also paid tribute and said: “Jordan was a very talented footballer and a pleasure to coach over the years we had him at 16s and 18s.
“He’ll be deeply missed by us and everyone who knew him. We are sending our condolences to Jordan’s family and also to the families of Lewis and Fergus”. Andrew, John and Norman.
“Lewis and Fergus, were also local sportsmen, playing shinty for our local shinty team, Fort William Shinty Club, and our thoughts go out to everyone connected to the boys in the Shinty family at this time.
“The outpouring of love and support from the local community to the boys’ friends and families has been nothing short of outstanding, and shows how amazing this town is when we all come together.
“The boys were hugely popular in the area and will be missed throughout Lochaber.
“The memorial at the Lochaber Leisure Centre is an absolutely beautiful tribute to the three lads.
“The memorial was created by their friends, who we are sure they will now be looking down on smiling with pride as all their friends continue to do them proud.
“If you wish to add to the memorial, it is located at the fence of King George V Park, next to the Leisure centre.
“Football is more than just a game – it’s about the people who make it special.
“Whether on the pitch, in the stands, or behind the scenes, every member of our club leaves a lasting legacy. We honour that legacy today with respect, gratitude, and love.
“Rest in peace Jordan, Lewis and Fergus. You’ll forever be apart of Fort William FC.”
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