February 20, 2020 10.02 am This story is over 49 months old

Man found dead in Wainfleet river named locally

He was a much-loved caretaker

| Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Tributes have been paid to a much-loved local caretaker who was named locally as the man found dead in the river in Wainfleet earlier this week.

As previously reported, the body of a 61-year-old man was found on Church Lane at around 1pm on Tuesday, February 18. Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious and the matter was passed to the coroner.

The man has since been named locally as Robert Mountain, who worked as a caretaker at Coronation Hall in Wainfleet.

Billy Stone posted a tribute in a local Facebook group ‘Wainfleet Wainfleet’ about the man known in the town as Rocky.

He said: “As most people know, the body found in the river was the caretaker of Coronation Hall Rob. He’s helped me over the years with letting me run the auction there and has been a pleasure to work along with.

“It’s such a shame the system failed him but now let’s hope he’s at peace so tomorrow night (Thursday, February 20) at Coronation Hall, where I’ll hold my auction, I’ll be passing round a donation pot on behalf of Rob’s memory as he helped me out so much. I want to give something back to him and hopefully a little bit will help. Hope to see you there. RIP Rocky.”

Caroline Anita Ash said the team at Wainfleet Co-op are “so saddened of the passing of Rocky” and will set up a collection box on the counter for any customers wishing to donate.

Mandy Toyne added: “I’ve known Rocky Mountain since I was little. Such a lovely person. RIP Rocky. Never knew his real name as long as I’ve known him. He will be missed.”

Sarah Baumber said: “Such sad news. Rocky always went out of his way to help others. RIP.”

Wendy Bowkett said: “RIP Rocky. You looked after us so well last year with looking after the Corrie Hall 24 hours a day in the floods. You will be so missed around Wainfleet. Sleep tight.”

If you have been affected by these events, you can find help and advice on the Samaritans website here.