THE ‘HEARTBROKEN’ family of a pensioner whose body was found in the River Avon have thanked those who helped with the search.
Police discovered a body in the river near Warwick Castle on Saturday (October 26). Officers believe it is that of 91-year-old Ronald Lovell, who went missing from his home in Old Milverton on Sunday October 13.
Mr Lovell’s niece Rachael Lovell said: “My family would like to thank everyone involved in searching for my Uncle Ron. The support has been just amazing.
“Unfortunately my uncle was found in the river by Warwick Castle, not the outcome any of us wanted, but he can be laid to rest in peace now he has been found.
“He wasn’t just my great uncle he was one of my best friends and I am truly heartbroken that this is how our story has ended when we had so much time left.”
Floral tributes to Mr Lovell have been left on a bench in Portobello Meadow in Old Milverton.
A note tied to the bench reads: “In loving memory of local Milverton man Ronald Lovell. May you be at peace now. You will be greatly missed by family, friends and the community. You were missing for awhile but now you have been found you can be at peace.”
A social media post asking for tributes to be left has received more than 500 comments.
Warwickshire Police is not treating the death as suspicious.
Det Insp Jim Rankin said: “While formal identification is yet to take place, the body is sadly believed to be that of Ronald Lovell.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this death.
“Our thoughts remain with all of Ronald’s family, who are being supported by specially trained officers.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Warwickshire Search and Rescue who have worked tirelessly in the search for Ronald, and I would also like to thank the local community for all of their support which has been a vital part of our investigation.”
