A HEARTBROKEN Southampton family have paid tribute to their "bubbly and cheeky" toddler following his death after an incident at a Hampshire lake.

Police have today confirmed the identity of a boy who died after he was found unresponsive in water at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve.

Greyson Birch from Sholing was found unconscious in water at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve on Sunday, May 30.

Officers were called to the reserve at 8.21pm on Sunday 30 May, and attended along with the ambulance service and fire service, who got the two-year-old child out of the water.

Greyson was subsequently taken to Southampton General Hospital where he sadly died on Thursday, June 3.

His family said: "Greyson Birch, our much loved son, brother and cherished family member who has sadly been taken from us was a character that neither family, friends or other persons will not and cannot forget.

"His bubbly personality that filled all our hearts with joy and happiness will linger in this world.

"Greyson was our light and life that will still shine to us all through our thoughts and memories. Greyson would love to dance, sing, play, just everything!

"To know that each time we hear Twinkle Twinkle or someone plays Baby Shark and he’s not there dancing and clapping his hands kills us to the bottom of our hearts.

"The cheeky little smile that would grace our presence will remain in our family and friends’ hearts forever. I know he is now in a safe place watching over his sibling and all that came to be a part of his short but amazing life.

"In this time of need we ask for all our family and close friends to be left to grieve and come to terms with the devastation that has been unwillingly let into our lives.

"His memory will remain always and live through the smiles and joy of each individual who had the pleasure of meeting him."

An 18-year-old man from Southampton, who is known to the boy, was arrested in connection with the incident and has been bailed until June 27.

Hampshire Police have not confirmed what the man was arrested for. 

A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "We continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding how Greyson came to be in the water, and appeal for anyone who was in this area between 7.45pm and 8.30pm to get in touch.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44210210811.

"Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org"