JOURNAL readers have left tributes and condolences to a man and his carer after a tragedy in the canal this week.

At around 2.15pm on Tuesday, November 28, the emergency services were alerted to the presence of two males who had gotten into difficulty in the Leeds and Liverpool canal, along Crankwood Road between Abram and Leigh.

Police, paramedics, firefighters, boat units, and technical response units were all present to try and save the two men, aged 49 and 60, but they tragically passed away after being rushed to hospital later that day.

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One man has been identified by Greater Manchester Police as Aaron Ritchie, whose family have paid an emotional tribute to him.

The identity of the 60-year-old man, who is believed to be Aaron's carer, has not been released by police due to requests by his family.

The pair's deaths are not being treated as suspicious and police are continuing to establish the circumstances behind their deaths, with a scene currently remaining in place at the canal.

Following the news of the tragedy, many Journal readers took to social media to express their sympathies and condolences.

Linda Macdonald said: "So very sad, thoughts go out to their families."

Thomas Mike Norris said: "It can be a little treacherous at that bridge. Quite a few cyclists have skidded into the water. Such a sad tragic loss."

Shell Roberts wrote: "So very sad, Sending love to both families."

Jayne Acton commented: "Deepest condolences to everyone on their sad and tragic losses."

Sasha Yates Buckley said: "So so sad! Rest in peace."

Lynn Robbins said: "That is so sad. Rip."

Andrea Samsopenshaw said: "Sending my respects and condolences."

Alison Potts wrote: "Such sad news, my sincere condolences to both families."

Pauline Heaton commented: "So very sad, sincere condolences to their families."

Trish Murray said: "So sad, condolences to both families."