A 22-year-old St. Helens student who drowned in Lake Como while on vacation with his girlfriend has received tributes from STAR readers.

Sam Rigby, a resident of St Helens, was on vacation in the lakeside village of Tremezzina with his 19-year-old girlfriend Olivia Greenall, when the Star and the national press reported on Friday, according to the Times.

On social media, friends who are devastated are sharing anecdotes about him that have been posted across national media as a way to pay tribute.

“We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Italy and are in contact with the local authorities,” the Foreign Office said in a statement.

Shocked Star readers reacted to the news online.

Simone James Bacon said: “Rip Sam really can’t believe it thinking of all the family lots of love always xxx”

Dave Tayla added: “Rip Sam buddy sending lv to everyone one u has been impacted by this tragedy sending lv to u all”

Michelle Unsworth said: “So so sad thinking of Linsey & Paul family at this time”

Thea Shepherd added: “RIP  prayers and thoughts go out to you, your girlfriend and family”

Gill France said: “Horrendous just heartbreaking there are no words prayers to all the family”

Meanwhile on the St Helens Star comment section, MakeStHelensGoodAgain said: “Terrible tragedy. It could have happened to anyone. Condolences to all the family.”

And Miss * added: “So sad this such a young lad thought are with his family His girlfriend n friends RIP”