Family and friends gather for tribute to teenager, 17, found drowned in river

Members of 17-year-old Ben Manning’s family, including his parents, Christine and Tony, brothers Lee, Simon and Jamie, together with friends gathered to remember him at a memorial service at St Mary’s Church, Swillington, Leeds.

Floral tributes spelt out Ben’s name and another was shaped like a guitar. His mother carried pink and white flowers.

Among those who addressed yesterday’s service were Ben’s brothers, Lee and Simon.

Ben, of Swillington, an A-Level student at Brigshaw High School, failed to return home following a night out in Wakefield city centre on Friday, January 21.

A massive search by police and his friends and family ended when the teenager’s body was discovered in the River Calder, Thornes Wharfe, Wakefield, almost two weeks later.

An inquest into Ben’s death has been opened and adjourned at Wakefield Coroner’s Court.

The cause of Ben’s death was provisionally stated as drowning, but more detailed investigations will take place before his inquest is concluded.

Mrs Manning, speaking shortly after her son’s death, said: “Ben was such a loving child, very caring.”