Pond Bodies: Families Pay Tribute

The families of two young men, found dead in a pond near an Army barracks in Canterbury have spoken of their grief, after police officially confirmed their identities.

The bodies of 17 year old Hugo Wenn and Daniel Lloyd, who was 25, were found 10 hours apart in Reed Pond on Monday.

Post-mortem examinations revealed that they died from drowning and detectives are treating their deaths as "unexplained'' until the results of further toxicology tests are revealed.

A 54-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder was released without charge last night, while a 28-year-old man, from Canterbury, who was held on suspicion of supplying drugs has been bailed until March 15.

In statements issued through Kent Police, relatives of both young men - whose deaths have triggered outpourings of grief in their communities - said they will be deeply missed.

The family of 6ft 3in "gentle giant'' Hugo, from Barham, said: "Hugo was a lovely boy who lived life to the full. He enjoyed every waking moment and enriched all those whose lives he touched.

"We feel privileged to have known him, albeit far too fleetingly. He will be sadly missed by many and will never be forgotten. May you rest in peace, our darling Hugo.''

Mr Lloyd's family, from Wincheap, Canterbury, said: "We are obviously devastated by Daniel's death. He was a much-loved son, brother, father, grandson, nephew and cousin.

"Daniel was a larger-than-life character who will leave a massive hole in our lives. His talent helped to reveal a unique and beautiful soul and we will miss him dearly. During our time of loss we ask to have the space to grieve and take stock of the huge hole that he leaves in our lives.''

Thousands of people have written messages of sympathy on Facebook and Twitter. More than 2,800 have joined a page set up in tribute to Mr Lloyd, titled RIP Daniel Lloyd.

One wrote: "Easily the best busker ever!!! The streets won't be the same without you sharing your soul. RIP.''

Another person posted: "You were such a great guy, always had a smile on your face and a merry tune to sing. I saw you last week and you gave me your usual grin from behind your guitar. Really can't believe you're gone. You will be very sorely missed.''