A Forres man who died in an accident at a loch has been described as a “genuine”, popular individual who loved the outdoors.
Philip Hanton was found dead in Sanquhar Loch in the town early on Saturday, following a search by the emergency services.
It is believed the 42-year-old may have fallen and drowned in the water, which is only a foot deep around the bank.
Yesterday, several bunches of flowers had been left at the waters edge, next to a wooden bench. One message simply read “RIP dude”, with a picture of Mr Hanton’s trademark sunglasses also drawn.
The curtains at his home on Diamond Court were closed, but neighbours paid tribute and described him as a quiet man who loved being outdoors.
Mr Hanton, known to his friends as Phil, was often seen walking his beloved black collie dog on the High Street in Forres, and was a well-known face around the town.
One neighbour said: “You would always see him going about with his bike or his dog. He always had his shorts and his sunglasses on. He loved being outdoors and would often go up to the woods.
“It sounds strange how it happened, it must have been a freak accident or something like that.”
Another described him as a popular man who was often socialising with his friends.
He added: “I saw him going about a lot on his bike, he liked to go out into the country with it. He was a quiet man but genuine.”
Police have confirmed his death is being treated as accidental, but could not go into further detail.
Tributes also poured in online, with Paul Reed writing on Mr Hanton’s social media page: “You will be missed. Such a sound guy.”
Abigail Young added: “Rest in Peace dear man, you gave me many funny memories. xxx”
Stu Art added: “RIP pal, too many good times together fishing, pedalling, working and most of all generally enjoying life to the absolute max.”
Forres councillor George Alexander said the news had come as a shock to the community.
He said: “It’s very depressing news to hear that a 42-year-old man has passed away like that. It’s a very popular walking spot and the path does go very close to the water. I don’t know if he fell in there or what happened.”
A search was launched for Mr Hanton after he was reported missing from his home early on Saturday.
Police, coastguard, fire and ambulance crews were involved in the hunt before his body was found several hours later.
