Father's tribute to lake tragedy best man

The father of a Black Country best man who died after going swimming in a fishing lake following a wedding reception has spoken for the first time about his "brilliant son".

Denis Cody paid tribute to son Patrick as he called for the funeral of the 26-year-old to be a celebration of his life. Friends and family are being urged to wear bright colours at the service on Monday.

Patrick, of Sedgley, was one of three best men at the wedding reception at Patshull Park Hotel & Country Club near Wolverhampton on August 6, when he went missing after going for a late-night swim. His body was found in the lake after a three-day search by divers.

More than 100 people are expected to attend the service, which will feature readings from members of his family. Donations will go to the Cherry Tree Special School in Wombourne, where Patrick worked as a teaching assistant.

Mr Cody, aged 60, today said: "Patrick loved life. He was a good, honest and caring young man.

"His bright and cheerful character brought happiness to all those who knew him. He was a brilliant son and friend with a heart of gold."

Mr Cody, who is headteacher at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Dudley, said: "I don't want the funeral to be like that of an old man. He was young and we wanted to reflect that."

Men at the funeral have been asked to avoid wearing black ties and it is hoped women will don colourful dresses.

The service will be held at 10am at St Chad's and All Saints Church in Sedgley, where Patrick attended mass most Sundays with his father. The service will be followed by burial at Sytch Lane Cemetery, Wombourne.

After graduating from Keele University in 2005, Patrick had a number of temporary jobs before signing up for a teacher training course for September.

The job at the Cherry Tree school was part of Patrick's preparations for his teaching course, which he had chosen to follow in his father's footsteps.

His father said: "Patrick enjoyed his work there helping the children so we have decided to make a donation."

Donations for the school can be sent to Wombourne Funeral Services, 124 Bridgnorth Road, Wombourne, WV5 8AY.