"He showed us how to smile all the time... and we feel robbed": Heartbreaking tributes to man, 43, murdered on a playing field

The family of a man murdered in Salford have paid tribute to him as a "true friend and hero". The body of Tanyaradzwa Julius Matera, known to his family as Julius, was found on December 7 on the edge of playing fields.

In a statement the family of the 43-year-old said today: “A tribute to a true friend and hero in our lives, our family will never be the same after the unfortunate and abrupt ending to the life of Tanyaradzwa Julius Matera.

“Tanyaradzwa was always our template for the qualities of love, empathy and humility. He showed us how to smile all the time and we feel robbed.

A statement on behalf of the Zimbabwean community said: “We remember a loyal and caring man whose life has been taken away. His contribution to the Manchester community covered all areas of politics, social entertainment, and community cohesion.”

Julius had been reported missing on 24th October 2023 after he had not been seen for several days at his place of residence in Eccles. GMP recorded ‘Julius’ as a high-risk missing person and began an investigation to locate him.

As a result of information received police searched an area of rough ground and dense shrubbery at Broughton Cricket and Rugby Club - situated behind a house in Great Cheetham Street West, Salford. The human remains of Julius were found at around 2.35am on Thursday 7 December 2023.

Two men were arrested at the scene with a further man later arrested, all on suspicion of murder. They have been released on bail pending further investigation. GMP believe Julius died where he was found but said "the cause of death remains withdrawn pending further examination".

Officers are still appealing to anyone that might have an information into Julius’ death to please get in touch with