Tributes paid to 'lovely' and 'kind' pensioner, 82, who was found dead in the River Don as police pursue murder probe

Tributes have been paid to a 'lovely, kind' pensioner with a 'gentle soul', after his body was discovered in the River Don earlier this week.

Police have launched a murder investigation after the body of Jim Harris, 82, was found in the river in the Mexborough area of Doncaster on Thursday morning. 

Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the discovery, police put up a cordon in the area stretching 1km (0.6 miles) around the waterway, as officers conducted enquiries. The cordon has since been removed.

Two men, aged 30 and 32, who were arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on police bail pending further enquiries. 

South Yorkshire Police believe Mr Harris, who used a walking stick, was passing through the area at the time of his death.

Tributes have poured in on social media from people who both knew Mr Harris personally and those left shocked by the news, who said he was 'robbed of the time he had left'. 

On Facebook, one wrote: 'So sorry to hear this. Jim was such a lovely, kind gentleman. So, so sad. Rip Jim.'

Another commented: 'Rip Jim... I knew this old chap.. hope they get the culprits'.

A third wrote: 'Looks frail and vulnerable, so how anyone could be so evil is beyond belief. My thoughts are with his family and friends.'

In another tribute, one said: 'Jim had a gentle soul, I used to walk with him occasionally when out with his dogs. 

'I used to worry about him walking on his own, because of the entitled low life wannabes we have on our streets today. 

'It's a sad day when you can't walk anywhere for fear of attack. Condolences to Jim's family at what must be a heart wrenching time.'

Others who did not know Mr Harris personally gave their condolences and said those responsible 'want locking up for life.' 

Another said: 'To live to that age and be cruelly murdered, when his retired years should have been at peace. Absolutely horrific, RIP Jim.'

South Yorkshire Police are continuing to investigate the murder. 

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Tom Woodward, said: 'As our investigation into the circumstances of this man's death continues, we are asking members of the public who may have information to please come forward.

'We are particularly interested in people who were in and around the Doncaster Road, Mexborough area between the hours of 6am and 8am on Thursday morning. 

'We believe Jim was travelling in this area at the time and was using a walking stick as an aid.

'Were you in the area or potentially have dashcam or CCTV footage? Please do share this with us as this could help us greatly as our investigation develops.'