'He was always up for a laugh and larger than life': Tributes pour in for West Midlands man after river death

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a Worcester man who died after being pulled from a river.

Gavin Campbell, 42, died after jumping into the River Wensum in Norwich in the early hours of Sunday, May 31.

Mr Campbell was born and raised in Worcester and, according to his sister Samantha, made friends wherever he went.

Miss Campbell, who lives in Warndon, has been proved right as emotional tributes have poured in from dozens of people whose lives have been touched by her brother.

Samantha Francis said: “Although I haven’t seen Gav for many years, I remember him with great affection.

“We once went out wearing matching Superman T-shirts. He was always up for a laugh and larger than life.

“It’s a memory that has stayed with me all these years and always makes me smile. Thinking of his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Amber Hirschfield said: “He was the most amazing person. We might not have seen each other for years, but you could guarantee if you bumped into him it would feel like you’d not had any time away from him at all.

“The laughs we had. And his laugh! We’d be in stitches on the bus back to Ombersley after work.”

Michelle Holmes said: “So sad to hear this news. Gav was such a lovely bloke with a heart of gold.

“He was always causing mischief. When we worked together he helped me through when the times were tough. Heartbreaking to hear this. Fly high with the angels Gav.”

Terry Jones said Mr Campbell was “one of life’s good guys” and Victoria Parry described him as “such a beautiful soul”.

Jasmine Banks-Lee said: “Gav was such a great friend for many years, I have so many happy memories. Very sorry for your loss and so very sad such a bright life was cut short.”

Louise Thompson sent a message to Mr Campbell to “rave in paradise my old friend”.

Karl Miles said: “RIP Gav, you lived your life to the max pal, no-one can take that away. Sorry for your loss, Jane and family.”

With another heatwave due this month, Mr Campbell’s mum Jane Mallice has warned people looking for somewhere to cool off not to underestimate dangers such as undercurrents and cold water shock.

“The water is a dangerous place,” she said.

Police in Norfolk said a man was pulled from a river in Norwich in the early hours of May 31 and later died in hospital.

“The death is not believed to be suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner,” they said.