The family of a former Bury FC footballer say they've been left 'utterly heartbroken' after police searching for him discovered a body.
James Dean, 35, went missing at around midnight on Wednesday (May 5)
A body was discovered in the Oswaldtwistle area of Lancashire on Sunday afternoon (May 9), LancsLive reports .
The death is not being treated as suspicious.
Following the news, social media was full of tributes to the former striker - who was widely known as 'Deano.'
James started his playing days at Great Harwood Town before enjoying spells at Clitheroe FC, Bury FC, Halifax Town, AFC Fylde, Chorley FC, Warrington Town, and Bamber Bridge FC.
In a statement, his family said they are "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," they said.
"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 Chorley FC spokesperson said everyone at the club was "absolutely devastated" by Dean's passing.
"The thoughts of everyone connected with the club are with James Dean's family and friends," they said.
"RIP Deano."
Dean's former manager at Chorley, Blackburn Rovers legend Matt Jansen, said he was "absolutely devastated".
"Such a great guy. RIP Deano," he tweeted.
Former Magpies teammate, Adam Roscoe took to social media to say he 'couldn't believe' the news.
"You always felt safe with Deano around on and off the pitch no matter where you were," Adam said.
"Such sad news. There wasn’t many people who had a presence and an aura around them like him.
"What a top, top person. Rest in peace number 9. Thinking of your family."
Another former Chorley footballer, Keil O'Brien, paid tribute to the 'special big dog'.
"In life you meet some special people but there’s a handful of special people you meet," he said.
"Deano you were one. A teammate, a roommate and just an all round unbelievable man. The best worst singer I’ve ever seen.
"The best roundhouse kick I have ever witnessed. Love you big dog."
A statement from Lancashire Constabulary said: "Following extensive police enquiries a body was found in the Moscow Mill Street area around 2.25pm today (Sunday, May 9).
"While the body has yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Mr Dean. His family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time.
"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.
"We would like to thank everyone who assisted during the search for James."
The North West football family is now rallying behind James' family, with a £10,000 fundraiser set up on JustGiving.
Toby Macormac, Chairman and CEO of Warrington Town FC, is behind the movement.
He said: "Many of you will know the sad passing of James Dean who spent time with us at Warrington Town and other clubs throughout the Northwest.
"James touched so many people on his footballing journey and now the Non-League family will come together to help and support his."
To donate, click here.
