Tributes to 'popular' man, 23, after sudden death

Tributes have poured in after a man was found dead near a dam in Merseyside. Jayke Uzell was found near to Sutton Mill Dam, off Mill Brow, Sutton Leach, St Helens at around 7.25am on Saturday, November 16, by a passer by.

The 23-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, with Merseyside Police treating the death as unexplained. There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Jayke leaves behind two brothers and his parents John and Tracey Uzell. John and Tracey would like to thank all of their friends, family and neighbours for their well wishes, flowers and cards following Jayke's death.

Yesterday, Monday, November 18, his heartbroken mum Tracey Uzell paid tribute to her son. Speaking to the ECHO, she said: "He was very popular and the number of flowers that have been left speaks volumes. There are absolutely loads. He was a funny guy with an infectious laugh and always on his phone chatting and laughing with his friends.

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"He was a caring and good looking lad, he was gorgeous and he was just so loving and caring. He had a big heart and had time for anybody and everybody. He just lit up a room, when he came in he was smiling, he was a happy man. He was just amazing, Jayke was an amazing son and he was always singing songs. He was just a brilliant son and loved his family to bits. HIs two brothers were his mates as well as his brothers."

The news of his death sparked a flood of tributes on social media, with a firework display taking place in his memory yesterday evening. Jayke was due to turn 24 in January next year, but his mum explained how their family now not only have Christmas to get through, but his birthday just weeks later.

In videos shared on social media, dozens of people can be seen gathered in the park to remember the young man. Sharing Tracey's tribute on Facebook, Ben Quirk wrote: "Can’t stop thinking about you lad, wasn’t close or nothing but will miss seeing you on the random occasion in Corey’s garage. You were loved and you will be missed bro. Rest up." Lauren Dorning posted: "Such a shame, cruel world, young forever Jayke."

Since the death of Jayke, dozens of bouquets have been laid where he was found on Saturday as people continue to pay tribute. Grace Johnston wrote: "What a lovely night it was for you Jayke Uzell, you was truly loved by so many people. God bless you, sleep tight love xxxx."

Jacko Twist said: "Can’t believe what I’ve just heard. One of my closest a purest mates gone doesn’t feel real what I’ve heard this morning. GBNF Jayke Uzell truly would do anything for anyone lots of love to all his family see save us a seat up there matey."

A GoFundMe page has since been set up to help his family with the cost of the funeral. The fundraiser, organised by Millie Smith, said: "I would like to raise as much money as possible to help Jayke's family with funeral costs at this very heartbreaking time for them.

"Jayke sadly passed away on 16/11/2024 unexpectedly and his family are broken. Please donate as much or as little as you would like , all funds will help and be massively appreciated. Rest in peace Jayke Uzell, forever young, forever loved." To donate click here.