Devastated family pay tribute to father-of-one after body found in River Tyne

Craig Reed, 39, who is believed to have links to the Wearside area, was reported missing on December 16 after leaving his home on Rose Street in Dunston, Gateshead.

An investigation to locate him was launched in a bid to bring him home.

However, police were called to the River Tyne on Wednesday January 8 to report of a body of a man in the river.

The body is still to be formally identified but it is believed to be Craig.

Officers are continuing to support his family at this difficult time but we do not believe there to be any third party involvement.

Now Craig’s family have released a tribute to the father-of-one.

They said: “Our family are absolutely devastated to be sharing this news with you all right now.

“Some of you may be aware that last week a man's body was recovered from the river in Newcastle. It saddens us to say that we now believe that to be our lovely Craig.

“Our hearts are broken and as we are sure you can all understand, this is an extremely difficult time for our family and we would really appreciate that our privacy is respected.

“Craig had the biggest heart and the kindest soul and was loved by so many. He will be sorely missed by us and everyone who knew him.”

Craig’s family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time.