STAR readers have paid tribute to a 22-year-old student from St Helens who has drowned in Lake Como while holidaying with his girlfriend. 

On Friday, the Star reported alongside the national press how Sam Rigby from St Helens who was on holiday in the lakeside town of Tremezzina with his girlfriend Olivia Greenall, 19, the Times reports.

Tributes are being paid to him on social media, with stories posted across national media shared by devastated friends.

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

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"