Tributes paid to 'one of a kind' dad found dead in car in Oldham days after going missing

Tributes have been paid to a "one of a kind" dad who was found dead inside a car in Oldham days after being reported missing.

Christopher Neary, 58, was found on Monday (June 1) after a search was launched when he was last seen on Lees New Road on Thursday (May 28). His family said at the time it was believed he was travelling in his silver Ford Focus.

Police, paramedics and fire crews were called to the scene on Monday night after reports of a car near an embankment on Lees New Road. Greater Manchester Police later confirmed the body found was that of Christopher.

It is not known exactly when or how the collision happened, with investigations now ongoing by the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.

What have police said?

Detective Inspector Clare Harrison, from GMP's Oldham district, said: "Firstly, I want to extend my condolences to Christopher's family and friends. This is a tragic outcome and I want to ensure that we provide them with the answers they deserve."

She added: "We are working hard to establish the circumstances that led to his death, including his movements in the days preceding, and in which he was reported missing, as well as the exact cause of the collision."

She urged anyone with information to come forward: "Even the smallest amount of detail could greatly benefit our investigation."

Police are asking anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from the Lees New Road area from around 6.50pm on May 28 until Monday, June 1 to contact the force.

What have people said about Christopher?

Tributes flooded in on social media. Sarah Murphy wrote: "RIP Chris. You were a lovely man with a lovely family. Sending lots of love to them all."

Demi Leigh wrote: "RIP Chris you was one of a kind sleep tight angel never forgotten."

Gordon Haigh added: "So sad, rest in peace Chris, my old school buddy."