THE mum of a popular young man whose life was cut short after he fell in a river is urging people to remain vigilant of water - five years on from his death.

Cheryl Bird, of Holborn Hill in Millom, was in ‘disbelief’ when she was informed her 27-year-old son Andrew had died while in the river at Haverigg.

Mr Bird, who suffered from Aspergers Syndrome, was immensely popular and well-loved by his friends and family.

His mum said the incident, which took place five years ago in September, ‘still feels like yesterday’.

She said: “We still expect him to walk through the door. We think back to that day a lot and what happened.

“I just felt disbelief and numbness – I remember thinking this can’t be happening.”

The 52-year-old described her son, who was a former Furness College student, as a ‘popular young lad’ who lived life ‘day by day’.

“He was mad keen on trains, rugby and karaoke,” she said.

“He loved trainspotting and was so knowledgeable about schedules and trains.

“He loved his rugby and Guinness.

“He was so well loved by people. At his funeral it was standing room only because so many of his loved ones were there.

“It brings us a lot of comfort knowing how loved he is.”

Despite his immense popularity, Mr Bird often fell victim to bullying by a small group of people.

Rumours surrounding Mr Bird’s death suggested that he was trying to retrieve some personal belongings that had been thrown into the river by teenagers, but there is no substantial evidence to support that claim, an inquest heard.

Mrs Bird said her son’s death had made her realise the importance of kindness and compassion.

“I want to get the message out there that we should be kind to everyone, not just those with autism, everyone,” she said.

“There needs to be more understanding and compassion towards people.”

The mum-of-three is also urging the public to remain aware of the dangers of water.

She said: “Andrew couldn’t swim. As a family we always tell people, do not swim unless you’re a competent swimmer, especially in the sea, rivers and reservoirs.

“It makes my blood boil when I see people messing about in the water and not being safe. It can be so dangerous.”

Mrs Bird said her son still remained a part of the family’s lives today.

“We talk about him everyday – he’s still a massive part of our lives,” she said. “He always was and will be a big part of this family.”

To commemorate the life of Mr Bird, a lifeline was installed in Haverigg to help others who may be in need.

Mrs Bird said: “To have Andrew’s name put on the lifeline meant so much to us. If it could save one person’s life who may be in need then we know Andrew won’t have died in vain.”