Appeal for footage of tragic Hartlepool teenager Benji Catchpole's final hours

Benjamin’s body was found in a wooded area near Tremaine Close, Hartlepool, on the evening of Sunday, May 24.

His death is not being treated as suspicious but police are carrying out enquiries into the circumstances as they prepare a file for the coroner.

They would like to hear from anyone who saw or had dealings with Benjamin, also known as Benji, between 4pm and 8.20pm on the Sunday.

Police are particularly appealing to Clavering residents who have home CCTV to check their footage.

Benji, 15, was wearing a black top with a red-coloured hood, black tracksuit bottoms with a red stripe down them and black trainers.

Anyone who can help is advised to contact DC Angel from Hartlepool CID on 101, quoting reference number 083460.

Benji attended Manor Community Academy which last week paid tribute to him saying: “Ben was an extremely likeable young man within Manor Community Academy and his presence will be greatly missed.

“He was a very popular student in his year group and was well liked across the wider school by both students and staff.

“Ben was a very bright young man, who had great potential to achieve his dreams.”

Friends held a balloon release in his memory at the Sandy Car Park at Seaton Carew on Saturday, May 30.

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