Geoffrey Whitfield, 86, had been reported missing on November 19 from his home
19:23, 23 Nov 2025Updated 19:23, 23 Nov 2025
Geoffrey Whitfield is believed to be the man who was found dead in the River Mersey(Image: Cheshire Police)
Tributes have been paid to a ‘true gentleman’ after a body was tragically found in the River Mersey after going missing. Geoffrey Whitfield, 86, was reported as missing on Wednesday, November 19, from his home in Latchford, near Warrington.
However after multiple police appeals to trace him, including the release of CCTV images of Geoffrey walking at a busy junction in Warrington at 2am on Thursday, Cheshire Police then revealed a body was located in a stretch of the River Mersey at around noon on Saturday (November 22).
Formal identification has not yet taken place, but the body is believed to be that of Geoffrey. The death is not being treated as suspicious.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Police said: “Police searching for a missing man in Warrington have sadly found a body. Geoffrey Whitfield was reported missing at 10am on Thursday 20 November from his home in Latchford.
“Searches for the 86-year-old have been ongoing and sadly officers located a body in the River Mersey at around 12pm today, Saturday 22 November.
“Formal identification has not been confirmed, but it is believed to be that of Geoffrey. His family have been informed of the development and they are being supported by specialist officers. The death is not being treated as suspicious.”
Following the tragic news, tributes have been paid to the 86-year-old on social media, with those who knew him describing him as a ‘true gentleman’ who ‘had time for everyone’.
“So very sad. Rest in Peace Geoff, a truly lovely gentleman. Our heartfelt condolences to all the family,” one person posted online. Another penned: “An absolute gentleman ! He had time for everyone ! Rest in peace Geoff , you will be sorely missed.”
In another tribute, a person wrote: “I used to work in a pub this gentleman came in, he was such a lovely man. So tragic, I had so hoped he would have been found safe. Thoughts with his family.”
As a fourth penned: “I remember Geoff to be a very nice chap who always brought a smile when I was working as a young bartender at the Saracens Head many moons ago. Such a sad loss.”
After the tragic discovery, Inspector Nick Bamber, of Cheshire Police said: “Sadly, this is not the outcome that we were hoping for and out thoughts are with Geoffrey’s family at this difficult time.
“I would also like to thank everyone who has assisted with the search for Geoffrey, including local residents, the Northwest Underwater Search Team, Warrington Council, and all the volunteers from Cheshire Search and Rescue (CSAR).”