HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a “kind, caring and talented” young man after his body was discovered in a country park lake.

The family of Benjamin Andreas, 31, from Southend, are heartbroken after his body was found in Hadleigh Country Park on Thursday. 

Mr Andreas was initially reported as missing on Tuesday, sparking searches and a missing person appeal from police. 

READ MORE >> Body found in country park lake as search for missing man is called off

His mum, Julia Andreas, 66, admitted she has lost her “soulmate” and remembered him as a hugely talented young man. 

She said: “We are of course devastated, and heartbroken.

“Benjamin was loved by everybody, he always protected me, I have lost my soulmate.

“He was so talented, he was funny, he was kind, and he was just a gentleman.

“He would look out for everyone and anyone.

“I don’t know how I will carry on without him, he was everything to me and my family.

“He was so special.”

Benjamin grew up in Southend, and attended Porters Grange Primary School, before studying Southend High School for Boys.

He then went on to go to Slade School of Fine Art in London, known as the UK’s leading art and design educational institution.

After his studies he became a full-time artist, like his mother Julia, and loved to escape to paint on Southend Beach and in Hadleigh Country Park.

Benjamin was one of six children and was close to his siblings.

His sister Leah Andrews added: “He was an amazing brother; we are going to miss him so much.

“He always looked out for everyone, and he was so kind.”
Benjamin’s death is not currently being treated as suspicious but as unexplained.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers looking for Benjamin Andreas, have suspended their search following the discovery of a man’s body.

“The discovery was made at the Hadleigh Country Park.

“Mr Andreas’ family have been informed.

“The man’s death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”