THE heartbroken aunt of popular Ryan Coleman has spoken of the family's grief ahead of his funeral - and urged others to seek help if they are feeling down.
Diane Cameron said her 20-year-old nephew will be sorely missed following his death last week.
The East Kilbride lad was first reported as a missing person before his body was tragically discovered within Langlands Moss Nature Reserve in the town last Tuesday.
She told the East Kilbride News: “He was such a good friend to so many.
“Everyone who has paid tribute to him has been nothing but positive, there have been no negative comments. And that just tells you how well-liked he was.
“Ryan will be sorely missed – he was a wee diamond.”
READ MORE: Friends of Ryan Coleman pay tribute after death
His aunt revealed that Ryan had just completed a first-year mechanics course at Motherwell College. She also said that Ryan was loved by his brothers Graeme, Andrew, Derek and Harry and sister Molly who are struggling to cope with the death.
She said: "He was a best friend to his brothers and sister, not just a member of the family.
“He has left such a hole in all of our lives. Ryan was always the life and soul of the party, and he was always there for everyone else.”
She added: "Any child, or adult who is feeling down, they need to ask for help as soon as possible.
“I would urge them to speak up and not to hide or shoulder problems themselves. If the message that comes out from Ryan’s death can help save one life, then that will mean a lot to the family.”
Ryan's funeral will be conducted by a family friend who is registered as a humanist on Wednesday. The order of service will also carry mental health and suicide helpline phone numbers.
A fundraising page was set up for the family in the wake of Ryan's death. More than £1,500 has been raised so far and you can donate here
*If you wish to speak to someone, you can contact:
Samaritans in Scotland - 116 123
Breathing Space - 0800 83 85 87
Chris's House - 01236 766755
Scottish Association for Mental Health - 0141 530 1000
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