20 September 2023 , 22:04
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A "heartbroken" family has paid tribute to their "beautiful" and "brilliant" brother who was found dead in a river.
Craig Arron Hodkinson, 33, was reported missing in Bolton, Manchester, on September 13, but four days later officers recovered a lifeless body in the River Croal, which was later confirmed as him.
His loved ones addressed the tragedy and said he is "now at peace". They described him as the "golden child of the family".
His sister Lisa-Marie urged those struggling with their mental health to reach out for support. She paid tribute and said: "My beautiful baby brother is now at peace. He was a son, a brother, and an uncle. He had many friends from Manchester and Bolton and was brilliant. He was never in trouble or caused any trouble.
Craig was described as the "golden child of the family" (Family submit)"All his friends who knew him loved him just as much as his family. He has gone too soon however he is at peace now and flying high looking out for all his family. He is with his family members in heaven. We will always love you r'kid. You will always be the golden child of the Hodkinson family."
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Craig, who was a Manchester United fan and enjoyed nights out with his sisters at Manchester's Gay Village, had "so much life to live". His younger sister Jade and older sister Claire set up a fundraiser page to help raise funds for his funeral, reports Manchester Evening News.
"As you all know my little brother Craig passed away age 33 we are all absolutely heartbroken," the post on the page said. "Everyone loved Craig, he was a beautiful soul and he’s taken a piece of our hearts when he chose to leave us. He had some much life to live he was too young."
After Craig's body was found, at around 4.40pm on Sunday, Detective Inspector Lee Gridley said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Hodkinson’s loved ones at this very difficult time, we would also like to thank members of the public who helped with our investigation by sharing our online appeals.” To donate to the fundraiser visit here.
If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.