Body of missing Walsall pensioner, Sidney Edlin, found in canal

The 84-year-old was found in the Wyrley and Essington canal, off Leamore Lane, at 10.50am this morning.

Mr Edlin was last seen at his home in Rowlands Avenue, Bentley, Walsall, on Thursday afternoon. Concern quickly mounted for his welfare and a police search began.

Mr Edlin's family today revealed his wife of more than 60 years, Lilian, had suffered a fall and broken hip on the day the former gas fitter went missing and this had affected him. Son-in-law Ray Clifford, 61, said the great-great grandfather was later seen in a strange mood in his regular bookmakers and even told members of staff 'you'll never see me again'.

Mr Edlin, has more than 20 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, and was affectionately known in Bentley as 'the man with two dogs' as he was often seen walking his pets.

Inspector Kelly Monaghan from Walsall Police said: "This is a very sad discovery as we were desperately hoping to find Sidney and reunite him with his family. Our thoughts go out to all his family and friends."

At this stage the death of Mr Edlin is not being treated as suspicious.