An island community was in shock last night after a pupil was found dying on school premises.
Anton Michael, 15, was rushed to hospital on Tuesday afternoon from the Nicolson Institute in Stornoway, but he later died.
As a mark of respect the school and council flags were at half mast yesterday, Christmas events at the 1,200-pupil institute were cancelled and pupils and staff were offered counselling.
There was anger, however, about an alleged lack of information for parents and criticism of the reopening of the school.
Tributes to the fourth year student were led by rector Frances Murray, who said: “This is a tragic incident. Anton was a lovely young man who was well regarded by staff and pupils and made a very positive contribution to the school.
“His death is affecting the entire school community. Our thoughts at this time are with Anton’s parents, family and friends. We appreciate the support provided by all the emergency services yesterday. They did all they could, but unfortunately could not save Anton’s life.”
Comhairle leader Roddie Mackay said: “Our thoughts are very much with the family of Anton Michael. When terribly sad events like this touch us so closely it surely gives us a sense of perspective and proportion.”
A spokesman for the Comhairle added: “This pupil’s passing will be much mourned by pupils, staff and the wider school community.
“This is a tragic incident and pupils and staff will have the support of counselling services. Two counsellors will be based in the drama studio for the rest of the term.”
A number of students were annoyed the school had reopened, with one comment on Twitter stating: “They expect us to all go to school like nothing happened and everything is fine.”
Amd anoter posted online: “The school did not contact anyone that we know of. It should also have been shut today as a mark of respect.”
The council spokesman said the insitute would remain open “in order to ensure that we can provide mutual support”.
He added: “As you can imagine, rumours and speculation will always surround any such event. At this time, we would ask you to refrain from speculation, particularly on social media.”
He said the school and the Comhairle were ensuring pupils and parents were being kept fully informed, but would not comment specifically on the criticism.
A police spokesman said: “There are no suspicious circumstances and as with all sudden deaths a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.”