FRIENDS of a man who was found dead in woods have paid tribute to him – describing his loss as a “devastating shock”.
Matthew Orr, 38, from Eastbourne, was found dead in woodland last week.
Friends have paid tribute to Matthew in the hope of raising money for his funeral to give him “the send-off he deserves”.
Matthew, a keen surfer, was described as “one in a million” by his friend Jamie Mulroue.
He said: “Matt’s unexpected and untimely death has been a devastating shock to everyone who knew and loved him.
“People would always comment on what a great and nice guy he was, and on his comic timing when he would leave the whole room in hysterics from one of his witty one liners.
“Ever the adventurer, Matt embarked on travelling the world spanning multiple countries and continents across the globe and exploring destinations some would only dream of."
Matthew moved down to Newquay to continue his passion for surfing but would come back to Eastbourne every summer to reunite with friends and family – which Jamie said “meant so much to him”.
Jamie added: “Matt returned to Eastbourne at the end of 2021 to surround himself with the support of his family and friends, as he was finding life difficult to navigate and reached out for help.
“Matt’s struggles continued despite multiple offers of help and support from family, friends and health professionals.
“The ripple effect of Matt’s passing reaches far and wide and will be felt forever by all who loved him.
“Due to the sudden nature of his passing, the family are in the difficult position of being unprepared to provide Matt with a funeral, so we have set this page up with the hope that we can give Matt the full send-off he deserves.”
The fundraiser has so far got £2,470 of its £3,500 goal.
Matthew was found dead in Hampden Park, near Eastbourne, on September 26.
His funeral is to be held on October 21.
Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
For more information on the fundraiser for Matthew, visit https://gofund.me/9f6962dd
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