Tribute to Poolewe Pupil Drowned in Canoeing Incident

The Head Teacher of Poolewe Primary School has paid tribute to a 7-year-old pupil who drowned with his father in a canoeing accident on Loch Maree.

In a letter to parents of the 23-pupil school in Wester Ross, Mrs Margaret Young expressed the great shock felt in the school at the loss of Daniel Madders. 

She said: “Daniel was a polite, happy and enthusiastic wee boy. He was animated when he asked questions and told stories. He was heard to say how much he enjoyed being here.  At Christmas he sat with his knife and fork at the ready and announced, ‘Now THIS is what I call a Christmas lunch!’ He had a unique way of expressing himself and a fantastic sense of humour. He always shouted, ‘Love you mum,’ as Christine dropped him off at school. He was aware of other children’s feelings and took account of these but he also had that spark of mischief.  

“We will miss him terribly. We have talked to the children and given them a chance to discuss what has happened. This is the start of a very painful process as the news begins to sink in. We will try to continue as normal, keeping the children busy but will also stop and take the time to answer their questions or support them emotionally when they need it.  It has been a privilege for us all to have known Daniel.”