Hundreds join family in emotional tribute to Michael Brooks

An appeal to help pay for Michael’s funeral costs has been flooded with donations and his mum Joanne said Saturday’s event at the park again showed how supportive so many people have been following the family’s loss.

“It’s so beautiful to see how every one has come together for Michael and we are so grateful to everyone for their support,” she said.

“The turnout on Saturday was much appreciated. It was a lovely tribute which is a great comfort to the family and will stay with me forever.

“Thank you so much to everyone who came along.”

Michael, a former pupil of Moorbrook School in Fulwood who went on to study IT at Preston’s College, has been described as a witty, affectionate and well-liked young man.

Following his disappearance after going to Avenham Park with a friend, volunteers formed search parties to try to locate him but his body was found in the Ribble at Preston docks on February 6.

Police said at the time that a post mortem would be carried out to established the cause of death but the circumstances were not thought to be suspicious.

A date for his funeral is yet to be set.