Man found dead in reservoir 'brought everyone together'

His family said he "just wanted everyone to be friends"

The family of a paddleboarder found dead in a reservoir have said he had the "power to bring everyone together".

Simon Daniels died after getting into difficulty at Dovestone Reservoir, near Oldham, on Sunday.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) recovered the body of Mr Daniels following an extensive search which included the coastguard and mountain rescue volunteers.

Mr Daniels, from Cheshire, was visiting the beauty spot with his girlfriend, who was pulled from the water and taken to hospital.

His family said he was a "friend to everybody" and "nobody was a stranger in his eyes".

Specially trained search teams scoured the water for several days

In a statement, they said: "Simon is our world, he's funny, unpredictable and has a heart as big as an ocean.

"His larger than life and crazy personality lit up every room and his love, kindness and inspiration touched so many people."

Mr Daniels was described as having a passion for fitness and the gym, and helping others to "become the best version of themselves".

"His heart was pure and he was unapologetically himself. Funny doesn't cut it," the family added.

"He was hilarious," they said, adding: "He just wanted everyone to be friends.

"He loved life and even at the darkest of times he still managed to light up the room."

The family also thanked the local community for their support.

GMP said a report was being prepared for the corner.