THE family of an Island man who was murdered in Southampton has paid tribute to the "caring family man".

West Wight man Gerald Pragnell, 66, was born on the Island and moved back and forth to the mainland and was living in Southampton at the time of his death.

His body was found in woodland off of Cemetery Road, Southampton, on Saturday, November 3.

He was last seen leaving work at Southampton Airport at 6.30am on Thursday, November 1.

One man has been charged with the murder. Six other people have been released from custody but remain under investigation.

Tommy Scott, 34, of no fixed abode, is alleged to have killed Mr Pragnell and dumped him in the woodland.

He appeared at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday and a provisional trial date of April 2019 has been set.

His family said: “Dad was a loving father, grandad, partner, brother and uncle.

“He was a genuine, hard-working and caring family man who was adored by all who knew him.

“He was a natural joker who lit up the room with his mischievous sense of humour.

“We have so many stories and memories that will always remain with us and he will always be hugely missed by us all.

“Dad was taken from us much too soon and we’re devastated that he won’t be part of our future.”

Detectives investigating his death are still appealing to anyone who may have seen Mr Pragnell or his car, a silver Mercedes GLA, registration GIW 4045, in the Cemetery Road area on November 1, between 6.30am and 8.30am, to come forward.

They would also like to speak to any drivers who were in the Inner Avenue or Bedford Place area that day, between 8am and 11am, who may have dash cam footage.

If you have any information that could assist, call 101 and quote Operation Experience or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.