Heartfelt tributes paid to 17-year-old Poulton-le-Fylde cricketer Absi Ahmed after tragic Lake District death
Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a Poulton cricket club teenager following his tragic death in the Lake District.
Absi Ahmed, 17, from Poulton-le-Fylde, died after getting into difficulty while swimming at High Dam Tarn near Lake Windermere on Tuesday.
Emergency services, including police, fire, ambulance, HM Coastguard and mountain rescue teams, were called to the scene at around 12.32pm. Searches were carried out along the shoreline, water surface and underwater.
Cumbria Police later confirmed a body was recovered shortly after 10pm that evening. Officers said the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Superintendent Patrick O’Hara, of Cumbria Constabulary, said: “The thoughts and condolences of the entire rescue team are with the male’s family and friends who are being supported by detectives.
“I would also like to thank local farmers who supported the operation conveying first responders and equipment off-road to the search area.”
Absi was a student at Blackpool Sixth Form and a member of Fylde Cricket Club, where he played junior cricket and was awarded his first senior cap in 2024.
A club spokesperson said: “Everyone at Fylde Cricket Club would like to express our deepest condolences to our 3rd XI Captain, Adil, and his family, following the tragic loss of his brother Absi earlier this week.
“Absi played junior cricket at the club and was proudly presented with senior cap number 205 in 2024 when he represented the 3rd XI.
“Our thoughts are with Absi’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. As a club, we stand beside you and send our heartfelt love, strength and support.
“You are part of our Fylde family, and we are here for you always.”
Following news of his death, dozens of people have taken to social media to pay tribute and share messages of support for his family and friends.
Katie Page said: “Absolutely heartbreaking, such a wonderful lad with so many friends and his whole life ahead of him. I can’t comprehend what his family must be going through. Truly devastating. I can’t stop thinking about Absi and his family. Life can be so cruel. Lots of love and prayers to his family, our thoughts are with you.”
Mary Briggs said: “Truly heartbreaking. Condolences to your mum, dad and brother. We will always remember Absi, such a lovely lad and good friend to my grandson.”
Julie Rae said: “So, so sad. Condolences to all family and friends. Truly heartbreaking.”
Vera Langhorn said: “How very sad, such a tragedy so near to where I live. My deepest condolences and love to the family.”
Leanne Lamb said: “Truly heartbreaking. Sending love to all who knew him.”
Joanna Fitzpatrick said: “So sad, lots of love to his family.”
Wael Mati said: “May his soul rest in peace.”
Jan Turner said: “Peace be upon your family.”
Carley Jade said: “So sad. My son went through primary school and high school with Absi. Thinking of his family right now.”
Pauline O’Rourke said: “So very sad. My heart goes out to his family and friends. Rest in peace, young man. Gone far too soon.”
Viv Quinn said: “So tragic. Rest in peace, Absi. Heartfelt sympathy for all his friends and family.”
Janice Cullen said: “Heartbreaking. Rest in peace, young man.”
Joanne Jackson said: “That’s so sad. Rest in peace, young man, and deep condolences to his family.”
Carol Harrison-Dust said: “Tragic. Sending prayers to all.”
Joanna Frith-Williams said: “No words. This is the most terrible loss. My love and prayers are with Absi’s family and friends at this devastating time.”
Fylde Cricket Club has also confirmed a minute’s applause will be held before fixtures in his memory this weekend.