A man who died after the car he was driving plunged into a river early on New Year’s Day and was not found until later that afternoon has been named.

Jack Noades, 19, of Rectory Close, Great Paxton, drowned in the incident on Thursday. An inquest into his death is due to be opened today (Wednesday).

Police were called at 1.20pm after a white VW Polo was spotted in a tributary leading to the River Great Ouse near the B1043 Barford Road in Tempsford, 340 metres north of its junction with the southbound carriageway of the A1.

Mr Noades, the only occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. It is believed that the vehicle entered the water earlier that day,

possibly at about 3am, more than 10 hours before it was found.

Floral tributes have been left at the roadside near where the accident happened and friends have shared their memories of him on social media.

Charlotte Saywell said: “RIP Jack, you will be missed an awful lot by everyone. I’m going to miss my chats, my laughs and giggles with you and seeing someone who has always got a smile on their face. Heaven has gained an angel.”

Jessca Williams added: “Today we lost someone truly special to us but today heaven gained an angel. So proud of you for all you overcame. You’ll forever be in my heart my lovely friend. All my love sweetheart.”

Joanne Ward said: “RIP Jack, such a great lad. You will be sadly missed but never forgotten. Sleep well treacle.”

A post mortem examination was performed on Friday (January 2), and Bedfordshire Police revealed that the cause of death was recorded as drowning.

The road was closed until nearly 4pm on New Year’s Day so a full investigation could take place and the vehicle could be recovered.

A witness appeal released by Bedfordshire Police on Friday (January 2) called on people who may have been in the area on New Year’s Eve and the early hours of New Year’s Day to come forward.

“Police are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen it in the area prior to the incident,” it read.

“Those out and about celebrating the New Year may recall seeing something that could assist.”

INFORMATION: Anyone who can help officers with the investigation should call Pc David Clarke of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Collision Investigation Unit on 101. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers and remain anonymous on 0800 555111.