Musicians mourn death of 'legendary' local performer whose body was found in canal near Tring

Ben Platt, aged 37, performed frequently at venues such as MK11 on Kiln Farm and The Sunset Lounge in Newport Pagnell and has a large group of friends and followers.

Police put out a missing man appeal on social media on Wednesday, saying Ben had not been seen for five days and they were concerned for his welfare.

The last sighting of him was at 3pm on Saturday, near the canal boat he owned in Cheddington.

Less than 24 hours after the appeal, there was a tragic update. Ben’s body had been found in the canal at Pitstone, near Tring, after extensive searches by Marine Unit officers and volunteers from Buckinghamshire Search and Rescue team.

The death is currently being treated as unexplained but there is not believed to be any suspicious circumstances involved.

“His family has been informed, and our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time,” a police spokesman said.

The news has sent shockwaves throughout the music community in Milton Keynes, Leighton Buzzard and Aylesbury Vale.

Yesterday, The Sunset Lounge, which is at the Cannon pub in Newport Pagnell, is dedicating its usual Thursday open mic night to Ben.

“After the devastating news of his passing, we will be dedicating Sunset Lounge in loving memory of Ben Platt,” said a spokesperson.

“If you'd like to come down to share your grief, your support, to raise a glass, sing a song or tell a story, please come and do so...It is in times like this that as a community we need to support each other, to be kind, and to remember those who are no longer with us.”

At MK11 there was a similar reaction. “We can hardly believe it,” said the shocked organisers of the venue.

They added: “A truly good man lost far too early, Honest, determined and kind. Talented, creative and generous. He impacted such a large number of people, from his bands and music, his ambitious projects and most importantly his loving friendship to so many.

"He had all the best qualities you could ever wish for in another person. The world is a poorer place having lost him. Raise a glass with us to the beautiful legend, Ben Platt.”