A man known as a gentle giant to friends was believed to have shot himself in a recreation ground.

Friends have left tributes and comments for Joe Marchese, whose body was found in a wooded area of Hurst Meadows, East Molesey, at 1.40am on Wednesday, January 11.

A single firearm was also found at the scene, which was cordoned off for much of the day.

Detective Jake Nuttall, who was at the scene on Wednesday morning, described it as an untimely death and said there was not thought to be any third party involvement.

A cordon was also set up around a classic blue Rover in the recreation ground’s car park off Grayburn Way.

It was believed to be Mr Marchese’s car and was towed away shortly before 1pm on January 11.

A police spokesman said: “The car is forming part of the investigation. The car will be used by forensic officers to look into the circumstances surrounding the death.”

Mr Marchese owned a sunbed shop in Terrace Road, Walton, and was a keen bodybuilder.

The shop was closed following the death, and a sign in the window said it was temporarily shut for legal reasons, despite what Mr Marchese would have wished for.

Flowers and touching tributes to “Big Joe” were placed outside in his memory.

Friend Tracy Caird said: “Joe was such a nice guy. He was a gentle giant, not that tall, though he would laugh and say that to himself. He had a kind heart and was always very respectful.

“I am still in total shock, it is such a huge loss. The world has lost a great guy, and gained an angel.

“You will always be my Magnum, love you always...Ice Pop xxxxxxx.”

Howard Dee wrote on Facebook: “Very sad time - RIP Joe Siciliano Marchese - one of the most decent, inspirational and admirable people I ever had the pleasure of knowing - RIP big fella -you will be missed.”

Mr Dee said he was a rare breed and is dedicating a song in his memory when he releases an album in the next few months.

Did you know Mr Marchese? Email lrobertson@london.newsquest.co.uk or call 020 8744 4248 to pay tribute.