THE family of a man whose body was found in the Deneholes near Grays have described him as "an unforgettable character" with a "unique soul".

A man's body was recovered from the site off Stanford Road last week.

We are now in a position to confirm it is that of 47 year-old Lucas Fulcher from South Ockendon who had last been seen on 28 April.

In a statement, Lucas' family said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Lucas, whose absence is felt by his mother, siblings, extended family, friends, and the wider community who knew him.

"Lucas was a unique soul with a love for music.

"Whether he was writing songs, playing guitar, or singing; usually with a huge cup of coffee in his hand, music was his way of expressing himself.

"Lucas faced many challenges throughout his life, but he always stayed true to who he was: creative, eccentric, and thoughtful in his own way.

"We know that anyone who knew him would agree that he was an unforgettable character.

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"We choose to remember him with love and happy memories.

"We are grateful for the support shown to our family during this difficult time, and ask for privacy and kindness as we continue to grieve and seek answers."

Detective Inspector Darren Ward said: "My thoughts, and those of my team, are with Lucas' family at this very difficult time.

"We have been working hard to give them the answers they are looking for.

"While, at this stage, we have not been able to establish exactly how Lucas died there is nothing to suggest his death was suspicious and we will be preparing a file for the coroner.

"I again want to thank the officers and our partners who worked diligently, professionally, and compassionately to ensure his dignity".