A MAN died after "tombstoning" off a 10ft high bridge on one of the hottest days of the year so far.
Tragic Michael Stratton's body was found by police in water near the bridge in Gosport, Portsmouth at around 2pm on Saturday.
The 27-year-old is believed to have been with friends when he leaped to his death from the bridge in 25 degree heat.
A major search and rescue operation was launched after Michael, known as "Beaver", disappeared after the jump.
Police confirmed they found a body close to the Jackie Spencer Bridge and his family have been informed of the tragedy.
A statement from Hampshire police said: "A body has been found in water in Gosport.
"The family of missing 27-year-old Michael Stratton has been informed. Formal identification is yet to be completed."
An earlier statement from the force after the 27-year-old disappeared read: "We're concerned for his welfare as he hasn't been since since around 2pm yesterday (Saturday, July 23), when he was in Clayhall Road, Gosport.
"It's believed he was jumping off the Jackie Spencer bridge, known locally as the black bridge, into the water.
"The Coastguard was called, but Michael hasn't been located."
Michael's heartbroken sister Jade shared her devastation on Facebook, saying: "I'm so numb with pain I can't even bring myself to tell my kids.
"I'm absolutely heartbroken, words can't describe what we are all going through.
"He had a heart of gold and would help anyone. My poor big bro I miss you so much."
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Eyewitnesses described seeing Michael "jump off the bridge with friends and vanish" in the horror accident on Saturday.
Hannah Glaville said: "People have been jumping off Black Bridge for as long as I can remember."
Daniel Barr added: "Bridge is three metres high if that, people have been going to that area for years on hot days! Think it's more of a case of a very unfortunate accident."
Friend Martin Bromley said: "RIP Beaver mate, very sad news to wake up to, it was good meeting and working alongside you, we had some good laughs mate, you will be missed but never forgotten, my thoughts go out to his family and friends."
Tony Jarman continued: "Top bloke. [He'd] do anything for anyone and not a bad bone in his body. Gutted. My thoughts are with all the family."
Jade Brooks wrote: "When you really wish you made more time for someone and then they're gone.
"RIP cuz love ya to bits, always smiling, always clumsy - I'm glad you made your way into our family and got to know us.
"My head is all muddled and I'm not sure what the truth is but it will come out. Sending my love to your family."
Wilfred Pottinger added: "RIP Michael Stratton I'm glad I met you, you taught me some good lessons in life that I will never forget.
"Your going to be missed by loads of people Mike, RIP my friend."
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