Devastated family share heartfelt tributes to 'popular wee boy', 15, who died suddenly while playing football | The Sun
A DEVASTATED family have paid moving tributes to a "popular" 15-year-old boy who died doing "what he loved most".
Andrew MacKinnon collapsed on the pitch while playing football at Forrester High in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Emergency services rushed to the school on Tuesday afternoon but were unable to save the teen.
Andrew tragically died of heart failure and it it understood the footie-mad pupil had previously undergone cardiomyopathy surgery.
The gifted footballer and huge Hearts fan, who played for Salvesen blues 07s, leaves sister Aimee, 20, sister Rachel, 17, mum, 48, Janine Dow, dad also Andrew MacKinnon, 40, and stepdad Gary Weir, 55.
Dad Andrew said: "He was a really popular wee boy and a massive Hearts fan. He had so many friends and just loved his friends, family and football.
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"He really was such a lovely wee boy and really loved his football. He died doing the thing he loved most and we are all heartbroken.
"We will be at Forrester at 4pm to put his strip up behind the goals and remember Andrew. Anybody is welcome to come."
Big sister Aimee said: "Andrew was a very beloved son, brother, nephew and grandson.
"He was such a little warrior who never gave up and will be missed forever.
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"His memory will forever march on with us. We love you millions little man shine bright angel, sleep tight beautiful boy, you are so loved."
Close friend to the family Megan wrote: "He was a lovely, caring boy and adored his family.
"A few years ago Andrew went through massive surgery – he’s was the strongest lad and powered through life with the biggest smile on his face."
Stephen Rafferty, Andrew's Head Teacher at Forrester High School, said: “Our school and local community have been shocked and saddened by Andrew’s passing.
"He was such a likeable character, loved by everyone who knew him.
"He was a great sportsman, an outstanding team player and a loyal friend.
"Our deepest sympathies are with Andrew’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Tributes have been paid to the Hearts fan and an online fundraising page has been set up and has already raised more than £13,000.
Floral tributes were attached to gates at the school where young Andrew tragically died.
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