The Reading Chronicle has opened this online book of condolence to bring together tributes to a 64-year-old Reading man, Gareth Evans.

Gareth’s body was sadly discovered by police after being reported missing from the Caversham area.

He was last seen in Caversham on Tuesday, October 15 on CCTV when he was spotted returning to his boat and reported missing 3 days later.

Residents across Caversham had come together to find the resident, with dog walkers, cyclists and joggers joining forces.

Anyone who would like to pay tribute or offer their condolences is invited to leave a message on this page. Please be respectful and only leave messages that show sensitivity. These are difficult times for the family and the community.

To add your own contribution, click the red 'Add your contribution now' button below.

There may be a slight delay in your messages appearing on the page as they must first be approved by the Reading Chronicle staff.

(Image: PA)

Community answers

Book of condolences for 64-year-old Reading man, Gareth Evans

"The body of a Reading man, Gareth Evans, was sadly discovered on Sunday, October 27 after being reported missing from his boat in Caversham. Gareth, 64, was last seen on Tuesday, October 15 on CCTV when he was spotted returning his boat. He was then reported missing three days later on Friday, October 18. Police reported on their social media that a body had been found after members of the community organised a search party on Saturday, October 26. Leave your message of condolence here."

We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.

From Kat Sloan

Leave your message hereRest in peace Gareth. I’m so sorry to hear of this sad loss. My thoughts are with his family and friends, you should be so proud of how you fought for Gareth. Sending healing thoughts. Gareth sounded like a wonderful man x

From Community contributor

Leave your message hereA kind and generous soul, a joy to talk to and I’ll never forget that laugh. Rest in peace

From Ian Richardson

Leave your message hereAlthough I never actually met Gareth, I have been friends with his brother Dion (Dye) for 20+ years. I know Gareth was an extremely generous guy, loved wild life and the alternative life style that he chose to live. Sleep well Gareth.

From Dan & Heidi Hubbucks

Leave your message hereGareth there will always be a hole in my heart I remember so many good times and as long as I live will never know which of your stories were totally true and which had a twist of Groff but they were all great.

From Louise Caligari

Leave your message hereI used to be a river neighbour to Gareth and often used to meet him to talk about birds and nature. We’d talk about which birds had visited the feeders and other nature around. He also introduced me to lots of other people who would also stop at his boat to chat. He will be missed on the river.

From Sarah petty

Leave your message hereRest in peace

From David Watson

Leave your message hereI'm shocked and saddened ar this awful news,I knew Gareth over many years.

From Community contributor

Leave your message hereRip you legend, you’ll be Sadly missed by many.

From Christopher Wiggins

Leave your message hereGareth, gone but never forgotten. A true legend lots of love Wiggy ❤️

From Steve Wallis

Leave your message hereGareth was known to all those of us who enjoyed a walk on the river. We often discussed his native Wales, and just a month ago we talked about his memories of Ireland. My walks will be a lot more lonely now. Rest in Peace my friend.

From Rebecca howie

Leave your message hereSleep tight