Dead body found at football ground

A football fan who went missing during a match was found dead in the stadium three days later.

John Steans, 50, went to Grantham Town's home game against Leek Town on Saturday, February 26, and left his friends at half time, telling them he was going to get some food.

He never returned and was reported missing to police after the match.

Three days later his body was discovered in the toilets at the South Kesteven Sports Stadium.

He was found just hours after police had issued a missing person appeal.

They told local newspaper The Grantham Journal: “The circumstances of Mr Steans’ death and the fact that he had been reported missing are under investigation.

“We are still in the process of establishing the cause of death and the timeline from Mr Steans being reported missing to the discovery of his body at around 3.50pm on March 1.

“The circumstances surrounding his disappearance and the investigation that followed have been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.”

Owners of the ground, South Kesteven District Council said Grantham Town FC was responsible for cleaning and locking up the stadium after games.

A statement from the club said: “Grantham Town Football Club was shocked to learn of the unfortunate death of supporter John Steans at Saturday’s game against Leek Town.

“The thoughts of the club are with his family and friends at this sad time.”