KIND-HEARTED residents have raised more than £11,500 for the family of a dad-to-be whose body was found last week.

An online appeal was launched after the disappearance of Kieran Cowan, from Prestonpans.

The 23-year-old had been on a boat on Loch Awe, Argyll and Bute, with two other men when the boat capsized.

The other two men were able to swim to a nearby island and raise the alarm but Mr Cowan was missing. Last Wednesday, police confirmed they had recovered Mr Cowan’s body.

Connor Fairley launched an online appeal to support Mr Cowan’s family, with an initial target of £1,000. That figure was well and truly smashed, with more than £11,700 raised.

On the page, Mr Fairley said: “Kieran Cowan was a delight to many people, someone who made everyone laugh and had a heart of gold.

“Kieran had a solid, steady income and after the recent tragedy that will now affect his family.

“It breaks my heart but as everyone knows Kieran and Lisa are due to have a little baby girl. I have never felt so helpless in my life so as a very close friend I would like to help as much as possible.

“Our group of friends that Kieran grew up with are doing everything they can to help and I’m sure everyone else would like to do the same.

“Every penny raised will be donated to Lisa Reid to support and provide a little comfort for Lisa and their little baby girl.

“Once the time period is over, I will personally make a book with every person’s name, donation and message that will then be given to Lisa and her baby girl to show the love and support she has from every single person who helped her through this tough time. We all miss you so much Kieran and we will do everything we can to support your family.”

Gavin Clark, headteacher at Preston Lodge High School, where Mr Cowan was a former pupil, paid tribute to him, saying: “Our thoughts have been with the family as this tragedy progressed.

“We all remember Kieran as a fine young man and we know his family and the community will really miss him.

“We are delighted that the Justgiving page has exceeded its target and we are planning to run an event as a school to allow us to contribute to that fund.”

To make a donation, go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/kieran-cowan-family