TRIBUTES have been paid to a young dad who died near Hereford on Monday afternoon.

Eric Marchant was originally from Ross-on-Wye and had moved to Clehonger with his young family in April.

His wife Becca said he was the "most loving husband she could ever ask for" as well as being a "doting father who adored his children".

"He cared so much about his friends and family and would go out of his way to be there for anyone if they needed them and put a smile on their face," she added.

"He was incredibly cheeky and crazy and just a wonderful wonderful person.

"This world didn't deserve him."

Mr Marchant was 32 and a former John Kyrle High School student. He worked as a bricklayer.

He had been married to Becca for five years and the couple had two children together called Lottie, who is 6, and two-year-old Toby.

"He loved playing on his Playstation and watching movies," added Becca.

"His passion was sailing, but his favourite thing to do was spend time with me and our kids.

"He was so funny and literally made everyone laugh."

Police were called to Clehonger on Monday after concerns were raised for Mr Marchant's welfare.

West Mercia officers later confirmed they visited a street in the village before Mr Marchant's body was found.

"The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious at this time and a file will be prepared for the coroner in due course," a police spokesman added.

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