News

Cause of man's death unknown

THE parents of a university student found dead in England have spoken of their pain at losing a "darling son".

Police are investigating the "unexplained death" of James Steen (23), right, at a house in the town of Rugby.

Originally from Poyntzpass the keen polo player was a student at Newcastle University and is under-stood to have been visiting friends in Rugby.

Three men, aged 25, 29 and 31, were arrested on suspicion of murder last Saturday and have since been released on police bail until September.

Mr Steen's parents said the 23-year-old had enriched the lives of many with his generous spirit and sense of humour.

"We have lost our darling son. Words simply can not convey the pain we are currently experiencing," they said in a statement.

"James enriched our lives, and the lives of others, in so many ways.

"He was a kind, caring, intelligent and very talented young man, with a generous spirit. He touched everyone he met with his positivity and his sense of humour.

"We are devastated by James' untimely death, but we are comforted by knowing how much he was loved and admired by his family, friends and university colleagues. We are immensely proud of our son, and all he achieved and the significant mark he made during his brief time on this earth."

Police launched a murder investigation after an ambulance was called to a property at Wood Street in Rugby last Saturday morning.

The cause of death is not yet known.

Mr Steen was studying media, communications and cultural studies at Newcastle University and was president of the Polo Society.

Friend Wiggy Bamforth posted a message on the society's facebook page which paid tribute to the "role model".

"James was a stalwart of the polo club from his earliest days at both Northumbria and Newcastle, where he latterly became secretary then president," she said.

"In developing his game to become a useful and dependable team member, James became a role model to others. He was an outgoing and enthusiastic member of the team in all senses; supporting both the club and its players to his utmost. As president he put his whole being into the running of the club, and I hope that in coming years we can continue to follow in his footsteps and make him proud.

"We will all miss James."

A spokesman for Newcastle University's school of arts and cultures said Mr Steen was a "bright and ambitious" student, committed to his degree and a pleasure to teach.

Mr Steen's brother, Rev Ian Steen, is a minister at Windsor Presbyterian Church on south Belfast's Lisburn Road.