Alex Rodda death: Dad's tribute to 'perfect and beautiful' son Published duration 16 December 2019

image copyright Family handout image caption Alex Rodda "loved life and made friends wherever he went", his family said

The father of a teenager found dead in woodland has paid tribute to his "beautiful little boy".

Alex Rodda, 15, was found near Ashley Mill Lane, in Ashley, Cheshire, at about 08:00 GMT on Friday.

Matthew Mason, 18, of Ash Lane, Ollerton near Knutsford, appeared before South Cheshire Magistrates' Court earlier charged with his murder.

Alex's father Adam Rodda posted on Facebook: "RIP my perfect and beautiful boy. I love you more than life itself."

Mr Rodda, the landlord of the Bridge Inn pub, in Audlem near Crewe, also thanked his customers for their support and condolences.

He said: "I can't thank you enough and will never forget all your kindness at what is undoubtedly the most horrendous time of my life."

image copyright Facebook image caption Matthew Mason appeared in court charged with murder

Mr Rodda added: "I will be back as soon as I feel I can talk to you all without breaking down.

"In the interim, please say a little prayer for my beautiful baby boy, who I know a lot of you have met."

A separate family statement said: "Alex was a very loving, caring, kind, loyal and, most of all, trusting young boy.

"He loved life and made friends wherever he went. He will be sorely missed."

image caption A note remembering "my sweet boy Alex" was left among floral tributes

Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School head teacher Denis Oliver said Alex, who was in Year 11, would be "sorely missed by everyone who knew him".

"Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers are with Alex's family and friends at this very sad time."

Mr Mason is also charged with possessing a bladed article in a public place when he was arrested in Forton, near Newport, Shropshire, about four hours after the body was found.

He was remanded in custody and is due to next appear at Chester Crown Court on Wednesday.