Family pay tribute to ‘beloved’ man who was sadly found dead

The family of a ‘beloved’ man who was sadly found dead in a canal in North Staffordshire have paid tribute to him.

Secondary school teacher, Gary Bartram, aged 49, was tragically found in a canal near to Deep Hayes Country Park on Sutherland Road, Longsdon, just before 9am on Sunday (10 December).

Officers went to the scene with colleagues from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

His family are continuing to be supported by specially-trained officers at this time.

In a tribute to Gary, they said: “Words cannot express the devastation at the sudden passing of a beloved husband. He has left behind a loving family, a huge group of lifelong friends, and a community of students that he had made his life's work to teach and support in any way he could.

“His warm, kind, fun loving zest for life brought joy to all of us. He is irreplaceable, our hearts are broken, and the family respectfully asks that we are given time and space to grieve during this very difficult time.”

A 49-year-old man, from Dundee, was arrested the same day on suspicion of murder. He was later released on conditional police bail while enquiries continue.

Detective Inspector Nathan Hough, from CID, said: “My thoughts remain with Gary’s family and friends at this tragic time. 

“Our investigation into the events leading up to his death is continuing. We’d like to thank everyone who has come forward with information so far and those who have spoken to officers in the area.

“I’d like to ask people not to speculate about what happened whilst we continue to carry out our enquiries and to respect the family’s wishes for privacy as they continue to grieve.”

If you’ve got information that could help us and you haven’t got in touch already, please call 101, quoting incident 215 of 10 December, or message us using Live Chat on our website.

If you’d like to stay anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Tell them what you know, not who you are.