BARNSLEY Central MP Dan Jarvis has paid tribute to a man who was found dead in parkland last Friday.

Spencer Gandley, 46, had been reported missing last week having not been seen since Monday May 13 when his partner dropped him off in Barnsley town centre for an appointment at Santander bank on Queen Street.

He was last seen leaving Santander Bank at 9.30am, heading towards the Barnsley interchange.

Police launched a search and his body was discovered in Monk Bretton in parkland.

Barnsley Central MP Dan Jarvis knew Spencer having crossed paths several times over the years including at events for Barnsley Youth Choir - of which both were big supporters.

“I was devastated to learn of Spencer’s death,” said Mr Jarvis.

“He had always struck me as a witty, intelligent, caring and thoughtful person and his passing is an absolute tragedy. I know how much he was treasured and just how much he will be missed.

“My heartfelt condolences go to Spencer’s partner and their family at this most dreadful time. They have all been in my thoughts and I will do whatever I can to support them.”

Spencer’s death is not being treated as suspicious however police are keen to understand the circumstances leading up to the body being found.

A police spokesman said: “We are particularly interested in knowing what Mr Gandley’s movements were after he went missing last Monday.

“If you have any information, please call 101 quoting incident number 0033 of May 14 2019.”