Murder Shock in East Sussex: Wayne Woodgate Found Dead, Son’s Heartbreaking Tributes
Wayne Woodgate’s Body Found After Mysterious Disappearance
Wayne Woodgate, a well-known and loved dad from Tunbridge Wells, was found dead in a rural spot in Peasmarsh, East Sussex. The 54-year-old had been missing since October 17, last seen on Goods Station Road, Tunbridge Wells. Police launched a murder probe after his body was discovered on October 23.
Man Arrested as Police Crack Murder Investigation
A 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody while officers press on with their inquiries. kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage from the A268 between Peasmarsh and Four Oaks to come forward, especially from two tight time slots on October 17 and 20.
“We are specifically requesting any dashcam footage for journeys made between 5:15 pm and 5:45 pm on Thursday, October 17, and between 8:15 am and 8:45 am on Sunday, October 20,” said Detective Chief Inspector Neil Kimber.
Family Mourns ‘Colourful’ Dad Taken Too Soon
Wayne’s sons have paid touching tributes to their father, describing him as a “kind-hearted,” “social butterfly” with a “heart of gold.”
- George Woodgate called him a “loving and dedicated family man” who was full of humour and warmth.
- Glenn Goldsmith said Wayne was “a face of Tunbridge Wells that everyone knew and will miss.”
- Christopher Goldsmith fondly remembered Wayne’s love of “a nice cold beer” and expressed profound love for his dad.
- Thomas Webster revealed how Wayne “took me under his wing” and shaped him into the man he is today.
George summed up the family’s pain: “He was taken from us much before his time… The realisation that my dad will never see my 8-month-old son in school uniform or hear him call his grandad breaks me most unimaginably.”
Family Launches GoFundMe for ‘Wayne-Style’ Send-Off
To honour Wayne’s memory, the family has started a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral and memorial costs. They are calling on the community to help give Wayne the farewell he deserves.
Police Appeal for Information
If you have any information or dashcam footage that could help the investigation, visit the Major Incident Public Portal or call 01622 652006 quoting reference 46/179489/24. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
