HEARTBREAKING

West Lothian chef tragically died after falling into River Almond on way home from night out as family pay tribute

Blair Meikle

Published: 11:34, 19 Nov 2019
Updated: 11:59, 19 Nov 2019

TRAGIC West Lothian chef Jonathon Donaldson died after falling into a river on the way home from a night out as his family pays tribute.

A body was found in the search for Jonathon, 26, in Blackburn at the weekend.

A body was found in the search for Jonathon at the weekend

He had vanished last Monday after leaving his work at The Oatridge Hotel.

Now, nephew Gary John says his "whole heart is broken" over the tragedy.

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Gary added: "To lose someone so close to me and my family in such a tragic accident is something I’m never going to forget or even begin to wrap my head around how cruel this world is.

"Johny Donaldson was making his way home after a wee drink and sadly slipped into the river Almond and it sadly impacted his life which is the most soul destroying thing ever because he was coming home. A tragic accident that has ended a very young life.

"I will genuinely remember all the daft little memories, silly stuff you used to got up to and the silly arguements (sic) we had.

"To the best steak maker I’ve ever met, the life and soul of any party and the biggest grump at times. I will truly miss you forever."

Thomas Donaldson said: "We where brought up like brothers, he was my summer buddy helping me out every time I picked him up his usual where we going for something to eat first and juice he would leave a mess behind him most of the time that was him.

"We had good chats in the van and a laugh.

"He was an amazing person to me with that cheeky smile and I will miss greatly in my life he has left a big hole in my heart."

Other pals sent loving messages in reply as they all rallied round.

Chelsea Lightfoot said: "Absolute heartbreaking thinking about yous all. He will be missed so much."

Sharon Mcdonald wrote: "Very tragic news a sad sad time for you all your all in my thoughts and prayers. God rest your soul Jonathan. Be at peace young man."