A man from Canvey has died after being discovered in a lake.

The man, who was in his 70s, was found dead in the water off Creek Road after police were called at 7.15am this morning in relation to concerns about the man’s welfare.

He was pronounced dead at the scene with police not treating the death as suspicious.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We were called to concerns for the welfare of a man in Creek Road, Canvey Island, just after 7.15am on Thursday 24 March.

“Sadly, a man in his 70s was pronounced dead at the scene.

“His death is not being treated as suspicious.”

They added: “A file will be prepared for the coroner in due course.”

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Figures from across Canvey came together to express their sadness at the news. This included Michael Fuller, a Castle Point councillor representing the Canvey North ward where the man’s body was found.

He said: “It’s a great tragedy and the thoughts of myself and all others on Canvey will go to the relatives of the person who has sadly passed away. It’s obviously going to be a shock to the community.

“King’s is a pretty quiet place and this must come as a tremendous shock to residents. I hope that if they have any other concerns there is support in the community for them.”

Echo: Andrew Sheldon called the discovery "tragic"Andrew Sheldon called the discovery "tragic"

He added: “But obviously our thoughts are mainly with the unfortunate person themselves and their friends and relatives who must be absolutely traumatised. I’m very sad to hear this.”

Barry Palmer, mayor of the Canvey Town Council, also expressed his shock at the morning’s developments.  

He said: “Our condolences go without saying. It’s always sad when someone passes.

“It’s very tragic to hear this and our thoughts obviously go with his family. It’s a terrible thing to happen and it’s not nice to hear somebody has passed away like that in such tragic circumstances.”

Meanwhile leader of Castle Point Council, Andrew Sheldon, also gave his best wishes to those close to the man.

He said: “This is absolutely tragic news and our thoughts and prayers are entirely with all of this gentleman’s friends and family at this time.”