A FORMER Bury FC footballer who accidentally drowned just a mile from his home has been remembered by his family as a “loving father’.

       The body of James Dean, 35, was discovered in a stream in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, three days after went missing, an inquest heard.

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       The former footballer was found dead a mile from his home Credit: lancashire police

       The hearing at Accrington Town Hall ruled that his death was an accident.

       Area coroner for Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen, Richard Taylor, said: "James Dean was found dead on 9th May 2021 in a stream near Orchard Drive, Oswaldtwistle.

       "He had been reported missing from home on May 6, 2021."

       The inquest recorded his death was due to drowning.

       It heard that Mr Dean had been working as a gutter fitter but had previously played as a striker for Bury.

       The ex-Chorley and Bury FC footballer had been struggling with his mental health for several months.

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       Following his death in May, his family paid a heartfelt tribute to him, saying they were "utterly heartbroken" and "can’t believe our James has really gone".

       "We are still hoping he will walk back through the door and give us one of his smiles," the Manchester Evening News reports.

       "James was a loving father to his boys, a son, grandson, nephew and a brother and he will be desperately missed by so many. He was such a genuine and gentle person who would go out of his way to help anyone who needed it.

       "We would like to thank everyone in the community who has helped in the search for James over the last few days and everyone at Brave Church for their love and support.

       "We would also ask that people please don’t speculate about what happened to James as it’s not fair for us as a family – especially his boys – to read these things. The truth will come out in good time.

       "While we are touched by all the lovely things people have said about James we would ask that we are now left in peace to try and come to terms with what has happened."

       A number of memorial events held in the footballer's memory have raised several thousand pounds.

       Mr Dean had also played for a number of sides over a 16-year career, including Altrincham, Stalybridge Celtic, Hyde United, Ashton United, Trafford, Harrogate Town, Halifax Town, AFC Fylde, Chorley, Warrington Town, Northwich Victoria, Clitheroe, Padiham, Great Harwood Town, and Bamber Bridge.

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       James Dean seen in action during his playing days for Bury FC Credit: Facebook/BuryFC

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