Salford: Man found dead in River Irwell had heart of gold | Manchester News

A man who was found dead in a river had a “heart of gold” and was “known and loved by many”, his sister said as she appealed for help to find out how he died.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said Richard Crawt’s death was being treated as “unexplained” after his body was found in the River Irwell in Salford on 9 March.

Mr Crawt, 54, of Keighley, West Yorkshire, had been using a blue tent pitched on a sandy beach area near The Meadows in Salford since 1 March, the force added .

Mr Crawt’s sister, Anne Marie, said: “Please, if anyone saw him or has any information that can help us piece together his last few days please come forward.”

GMP said inquiries were ongoing into the circumstances of his death.

Det Insp Justin Bryant said: “It has now been six days since the body of Richard was discovered in the River Irwell in Salford.

“We have been trawling CCTV footage, speaking with residents in the area to try and understand how and why Richard came to be in this location.

“At this stage of our investigation, we are still working to establish Richard’s final movements and the circumstances that led him to the river.”

He appealed for anyone in the vicinity of the River Irwell in Salford around the Lower Broughton area and the Meadows in particular or who had any interaction with Mr Crawt in the days before his death to come forward.

He added: “Richard’s family deserves answers during this incredibly difficult time.”

Anne Marie said his death had “completely shattered our world”.

“Please, if anyone saw him or has any information that can help us piece together his last few days please come forward.

She added: “We just need some answers.”