Missing Everton fan found dead after major search was 'so loved'

Body of dad-of-one Stephen Gretton, 53, discovered in woodland

The heartbroken family of a much-loved missing Everton FC fan have paid tribute after his body was discovered in woodland.

Stephen Gretton, 53, was found in woodland near Haydock Racecourse in Merseyside on Wednesday (January 4).

The dad-of-one's family had been desperately searching for him after he disappeared on December 30, 2022.

Tributes paid to 'lovely' grandad

Stephen's family paid tribute to him in a statement released by police.

"Stephen was such a lovely, caring person who was loved by us all and by many people in our community," his family said.

"He was a devoted and loving husband, father, brother, grandad, uncle and friend. We are utterly heartbroken by his loss and can barely believe that he has gone."

Police search

Police had been searching for Stephen since he was reported missing on December 31, 2022.

The force said there were "no suspicious circumstances" surrounding his death.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact @MerseyPolice or 101 quoting ref. 23000027773.