Tragedy as Brit backpacker, 26, is found dead in Cambodian guest house
Footie mad Ira Tilley had been travelling in Asia before his death
A BRITISH backpacker has tragically been found dead while on a dream trip to Cambodia.
Ira Tilley, 26, had been away just a few weeks when his lifeless body was found in a bed at a guest house in the country's capital Phnom Penh.
Devastated staff made the tragic discovery at the Mad Monkey Guest House when they checked on him,
The manager found his body after staff grew concerned because he had not emerged from his room for some time, the county's Khmer News reported.
Footie mad Ira, from Tynemouth, North Tyneside, set out to travel round Asia last month.
He was found dead at 1.30pm on Tuesday and his cause of death is unknown, but Cambodian cops believe said he is suspected to have died from a heart attack.
His heartbroken family are too distraught to speak to the press but tributes have poured in from grieving friends.
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Bob Wear, 74, chairman of Marden Residence football team, which Ira Played for, said: “I actually shook him by the hand when he left.
“He told the manager of the football team that he was leaving about three games before the end of the season and was going backpacking in Asia.
“It was out of the blue but he decided he was going. He was really looking forward to it.”
He added: “I feel for his parents and his family. I really feel sorry for them.
“He has played with us since he was 12. He has come all the way through, we are like one big family and the lads are gutted, we all are. He will be missed by all of us.”
Deano Bugatti wrote: “Ira Tilley stood out for me for his hilarious outspoken comments followed by a contagious cheeky laugh and possibly for the best reason of all, he had the biggest heart warming personality a friend can only wish for in another.
"He would always bring a smile to our whole family when we knew he was on way, he was part of the furniture at one stage when my little brother discovered all things nice, he was a pleasure to have around, I lost a little piece of me hearing he has gone. Until we meet again buddy.”
He added: “Gutted Ira Tilley, I’ve not felt pain in my heart like this in a long time.”
Daniel Wigglesworth wrote: “Probably the most genuine, caring and loyal man I’ve ever met. Love you mate, you will be missed by so many Ira Tilley.”
Kurt Colman messaged: “Guy had one hell of a personality. Such a shame.”
Gary Buckham said: “Gutted to wake up to the news of Ira Tilley this morning. RIP mate.”
Mathew Buttery wrote: “Rest in Peace Ira Tilley. What a guy! A true gent till the end.”
Rachel Pygall posted: “No one will ever forget that smile of yours! Lovely inside and out. RIP Ira Tilley.”
Tom Mitchell said: “Im shocked, devastated and saddened to be writing this! Ira, your happiness and fun loving personality was infectious and you will be sorely missed! You followed your dreams! Rest in peace my friend! My love goes out to your family and friends! Gone way too soon! X."
Paul Wintrip messaged: “Devastated to hear the news today. An absolutely fantastic lad, taken way too soon! RIP.”