The family of a Shropshire man who died after a night out in Shrewsbury today paid tribute to a “popular” son and brother, saying his death had left a “large gap” in the lives of everyone who had known him.

Chris Wall, 21, disappeared in the early hours of Thursday morning while he was on his way home to Castlefields in the town from a night at the Telepost Club in Abbey Foregate.

His body was found in the River Severn early on Saturday.

His mother Carol, father Tony and brother Graham today released a statement paying tribute to Mr Wall.

They said: “Chris was a devoted brother to Graham. They were not just brothers, they were the closest of friends and dedicated much of their free time to each other.

“He was also a loving son to Tony and Carol and spent a lot of his social time mixing with his large circle of family members.

“Chris will be sadly missed and he has left a large gap in everyone’s life who had the pleasure to have known him and his cheeky smile.”

Mr Wall had worked as a mortgage specialist at HSBC, where his family said he was highly motivated with a strong work ethic.

A keen bowls player, he captained the Royal Mail Bowls Team, which played in the Tanner’s Shropshire League.

Mr Wall also played in the Wem, Whitchurch and Staffordshire bowling leagues and his family said one of his proudest achievements had been when he represented Shropshire at a junior level.

He was also a member of the Telegraph Darts Team in the Shrewsbury and District Darts League.

A Manchester United fan, Mr Wall was also an avid supporter of Shrewsbury Town FC and had been a season ticket holder for several years. His family also extended their thanks for all the love, support and messages they had received.

Police are trying to piece together Mr Wall’s last movements and are treating his death as “unexplained”.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 03003 333000.