TRIBUTES have been paid to a man who was found dead in Ringwood.

Lucas John Hales, 29, was discovered by a member of the public early Tuesday morning at scrubland close to the Embankment Way business park.

Police and paramedics were called to the scene just after 7.45am where a cordon was implemented.

A Hampshire coroner spokesman said that investigations continue into the man’s death but the circumstances are not being treated as suspicious.

In tributes paid to Mr Hales on social media, he was described as a loving father, a good friend and a very talented tattoo artist who would be sorely missed by many.

Deb Keightley told the Daily Echo: “He was such a talented man. I had a tattoo done by him not long ago. My daughter grew up with him Ringwood. It is still incomprehensible that this tragedy has happened leaving behind his partner, his children, his parents and sister - there are so many beautiful memories for them to treasure and hold in their hearts.”

Al Warr, who went to school with Mr Hales, added: “He was the sort of person you could instantly bond with, down to earth, ready to listen and a fun guy to be around.

“The last time the group got together it was a fun and memorable event that went off with a bang - with fireworks - and for all who attended a lasting memory of a much loved Lucas that I am sure will stay with us all forever.”

Mr Hales’s former employer Warren Allport, owner of Bourne Inked, said Mr Hales worked for him for around two years, leaving the company in 2015.

“He was a really friendly guy,” Mr Allport said. “He could take anyone under his wing and deal with any situation. His artwork was amazing. He was very dedicated to his art and had his own unique style. He would come out with an idea from nowhere - it’s a great talent to be able to do that.”

Mr Allport said he will always remember Mr Hales for his Reebok Classics as he’d never be seen wearing anything else.

“He had such a warm heart. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him,” Mr Allport said.