A MUCH-LOVED Widnes man, who fell from the Runcorn Widnes bridge, has been described as 'caring', 'fun-loving' and 'well-liked'. 

The 25-year-old has been named locally as Rhys Cafferty.

Family and friends have been left devastated.

Underwater search teams and a police plane are still searching for his body.

Close friend Kevin Magee, 33, said: “It has hit us all really badly.

“Rhys was the life and soul of the party.

“If you were feeling down in the dumps, he’d cheer you up and make you feel better. He was a very caring man.

“He was always really happy and used to lift everyone’s spirits. I’m absolutely devastated.”

Police say officers were called at 4.35am on Saturday after receiving reports of a man acting suspiciously on the Silver Jubilee bridge.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “Officers swiftly attended the scene and tried to speak to the man, who was on the wrong side of the bridge.

“Shortly after their arrival and despite the efforts of all those in attendance, the man has fallen from the bridge.

“Extensive enquiries are ongoing in the local area – including air support and the underwater search time – in a bid to locate him.”

Rhys was a pupil at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic College.

Head teacher Wendy White said: “Rhys was a well-liked young man and a popular member of his year group.

“He will be remembered with fondness by the college community.

“We are very sorry to hear the sad news and send our thoughts and prayers to Rhys’s family and friends.”

Touching messages have been posted on social media.

Freddie Moran said: “He always loved doing the charity walks with us. A really funny lad. Really gutted to come home and see this. Chin up, mate take care.”

Rebecca Jones added: “Thinking of you all and praying for you.”

Louise Laveric said: “So sorry to hear about your terrible news.”

Lisa Carson posted: “So very, very sad. Heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends.”

Dawn Williams said: “This is heartbreaking, poor man.”