FAMILY and friends have paid tribute to a teenage boy who collapsed and died in a rural road.

The 17-year-old was pronounced dead in Back Lane, Sabden, on Saturday. The emergency services were called at 4.30pm and police have said the teenager’s death is not being treated as suspicious.

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Tributes have been paid to the youngster on social media over the weekend, who has been named locally as Oliver McIvor who attends Burnley College.

Friend Nicole Nield, writing on Facebook, said: “Was an absolute privilege to have known Oliver McIvor.

“Just really shows how God takes the best. RIP to a truly amazing lad.

“Thoughts go out to his family through this difficult time.”

His Facebook profile states that he lived in Sabden.

Cousin Bobby Carter said on Facebook: “I found out the worst news possible.

“My best mate and my cousin just gone like that.

“I never expected it. You don’t deserve it, you had your life planned out.

“I love you so much, had so many memories.

“Now I’ll know that anything can happen and to live with no regrets.

“You were loved by so many.

“Hope you’re looking down on us because I’ll sure be looking up on you.”

A dozen bunches of flowers were left at the scene yesterday, and a written tribute to the former Shuttleworth College student was left, signed by Bobby, Scott, Alison and kids.

It read: “It does not feel real.

“I still can’t believe it.

“You were my best friend as well as my cousin.

“Love you always.”

A fundraising page on Facebook calling for a football game to be held in his memory was shared by more than 300 people last night.

A Twitter user said: “R.I.P Oliver. Love you so much. We were so close and now you’re up in heaven.

“I love you to the world and back.

“Always looked up to you.”

Cllr Richard Newmark, who represents Sabden on Ribble Valley Borough Council, said: “It’s just shocking, it’s terrible news.

“I was told that he was just out running when it happened.

“The news came as such a shock, especially someone so young.

“The news passed through to me from parish councillors who saw the police cordon and all the blue flashing lights in Back Lane.

“Obviously my thoughts are with his family and friends at this hard time for them all.”

Insp David Clarke said: “I can confirm the police attended an incident but we are unable to release further details out of respect for the family."