THE partner of a Hindley man who was found dead after a two-month search for him has spoken of her heartbreak.

Scott Sharples, who lived on Brookdale Road, was found in woodland off Hindley Mill Lane on Thursday, May 17. He was last seen on March 20.

The 28-year-old had three children, Codie-Leigh, six, Tia-Rayne, three, and Lainey-Lou, one, with his partner of nine years, Suzanne Price.

Suzanne, 25, said: "I am heartbroken and my life does not seem real at the moment.

"I won't be able to grieve properly until Scott's funeral or expect what has happened to sink in until after then.

"It it very hard for the children and they are asking where their dad is and carrying a photo of him around the house.

"I'm trying to stay strong for them and for the rest of Scott's family but it has been difficult.

"It was Tia-Rayne's third birthday on Friday and we were hoping he was going to be coming home for that.

"I have had lots of support from my friends and family and there have been people coming to visit who knew Scott since he was at primary school.

"His death has shocked the whole community."

Police confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Scott's death and an inquest is set to take place in September.

The bricklayer was a popular family man who regularly had a smile on his face.

Scott's funeral service will take place on Friday, June 1 at 1.30pm at All Saints Church on Chapel Fields Lane before mourners will go to Hindley Cemetery on Castle Hill Road at 2.30pm.

Suzanne said that anyone is welcome to attend and pay their respects to Scott.