Tributes flood in for Telford father Harry Takhar after body is found in search

West Mercia Police has today confirmed that a body was found just off the Bridgnorth Road, near Madeley, earlier this week, which they believe to be the missing father-of-four.

The discovery was made in an isolated woodland area off Bridgnorth Road, and while formal identification hasn't taken place yet, officers believe it to be Harry, and his family has been informed.

The 58-year-old from Telford had been missing since the morning of Sunday, October 2 2022 when West Mercia Police and Search and Rescue launched a search for Harry.

A Facebook page, which now has 8,400 members, was set up shortly afterwards to assist in the search for Harry.

Now, people have taken to the page to express their condolences and sadness at the news.

Mark Dove, a family friend said: "As has now been announced, it is sadly true that a body thought to be Harry has been found.

"We searched and campaigned these last months, since Harry’s disappearance in the hope of his safe return home. That was not to be and my heart goes out to my friends and neighbours who are Harry’s fabulous family as they absorb this devastating news.

"Harry was a beacon of positivity. He was a kind, fun loving and devoted Husband and Father. His smile and laughter along with his approachable and friendly manner brightened many persons otherwise routine days.

"He is and will continue to be sorely missed by all that knew him and all that he came into contact with.

"Harry’s family are naturally numbed by this news. They have maintained an enviable level of devotion to each other as well as dedication, tenacity and dignity throughout this most troubling of times, in the hope of Harry’s safe return.

"I am privileged to know them as friends and neighbours. Could we please ask you all to give them the space that they need. Please refrain from direct messaging and calls for those that have the numbers.

"To the vast majority here and further afield; on behalf of Harry’s Family can I thank you all for your support, for the canvassing, well wishing and for the assistance during searches following sightings.

"Your help has and will always be appreciated. It’s encouraging to see what a community, like Telford, can do when it pulls together albeit sadly, on this occasion, the result was not what we all hoped for. The support and kindness has been heart-warming.

"RIP Harry. You’ll be forever missed."

Deena Anderson said: "Just saw the news and broke into tears. I’m so sorry for you all I really am. My heart hurts for you even though I don’t know you personally."

Wendy Anne said: "Thinking of all the family, my heart goes out to you."

Local football club, AFC Telford United, paid their respects to Harry with the following tribute:

"Everyone at the club is saddened by the news concerning Harry Takhar.

"We all wanted to 'Help Harry Home' and hope that Harry's family can at least take comfort in having certainty. Along with our whole community, we send our good wishes to those whom Harry was closest to."

Carrie Davies added: "My thoughts are with Harry’s family at this sad time. I didn’t know him, however, from seeing the photos and videos I felt like I wanted to know him. He looked like such a fun and caring person to be around.

"Harry, you were clearly a well thought of man. I hope you are at peace now."

Harry's son Callum thanked everyone for their kindness throughout the search and asked on behalf of his family for privacy during this time.

He said: "As a family, we kindly ask for privacy during this difficult time. Thank you everyone for your kindness and support throughout this process."