TOUCHING tributes have been paid by friends to a young dad-of-two who was found dead in woodland.

Craig Tyler, 22, from Basildon, who has been named locally by friends, was found dead near Northlands Park in Pitsea at about 2.25pm on Sunday.

Ambulances and paramedics rushed to the scene after police received reports of concern for a man in a wooded area off Chalvedon Square.

When they arrived, they found that Craig had died at the scene.

Police have said that his death is not being treated as suspicious.

Dave, 26, from Dagenham, said he became Craig’s friend after they met while playing football about five years ago.

Dave and Craig played for a team called Franks Boys that was set up in memory of Dave’s late grandfather, Frank Wall, and later they both played for another team called Proathletic.

He said: “I last saw Craig about 10 days ago and he seemed fine which is why it came as such a shock when I found out that he had died.

“I found out about his death via Facebook as a friend of mine posted about it.

“I know that he had two young children but I do not want to talk in detail about his family life.

“He was a great guy and a gentleman, who would do anything for anyone.

“He was very easy going and didn’t seem to let anything bother him or get him down and that is another reason why this has been such a shock.”

Dave, who is from Basildon and spends a lot of time in the area, said Craig was a great footballer and scored goals which would win matches.

He added that he and Craig enjoyed a few nights out in the past and that he knew his sister and brother.

He said that Craig was a big football fan and supported West Ham Football Club.

Other friends have taken to Facebook to pay tribute to the Craig.

Amy Williams, a long term friend of Craig’s, said: “I am gutted beyond words, RIP Craig.

“You are loved by so many and will be missed so much.

“So many memories over the last 11 years but your legacy will continue through your beautiful daughter and son.”

Kim Kimmee Elks said wrote: “RIP young man.”

Michael Randall Well posted the following message on Facebook: “I knew this young man and his girlfriend and kids very well.”

Danielle Nice wrote on Facebook: “Very sad news. I feel for the family and also those that found this young man.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were contacted at 2.25pm on Sunday, with reports of concern for a man in a wooded area off Chalvedon Square, Basildon.

“Officers attended and found a man in his 20s had sadly died.

“His death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.