Wigan teen at centre of murder probe remembered fondly by his teachers

The body of 18-year-old Samson Price, from Goose Green, was found in water at Westwood Flash on Sunday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the borough.

Many people have since paid tribute to him, with balloons, beer bottles and flowers left at a shrine in his memory, and some of his teachers have now shared their memories of Samson.

Susan Hodson, who taught Samson at Highfield St Matthew's CE Primary School, said: "He was a force to be reckoned with. At 10 years old he could discuss the Greek economic crisis and the novels of James Herbert! He was a member of our winning debate team and a ferociously competitive, yet fair, sportsman.

"I was beyond proud when he sent me his GCSE results and said he was heading to college.

"His passing is a terrible loss and I speak for myself and his other teachers when we say it was a privilege to know him."

Another teacher Joanne Parker said: "He was so, so intelligent and so very kind. So very sad for his family and friends."

Samson went on to attend Hawkley Hall High School and had recently started studying at Wigan and Leigh College.

Hawkley Hall's headteacher Matt Klinck said: "Samson was a very popular young man with both staff and peers alike. He was an extremely bright student who was committed and always contributed in class. He was sensitive and caring towards others and had a great sense of humour that made many people laugh. Samson understood the importance of his education and worked hard to ensure he was successful in school.

"He will be sorely missed by everybody from the Hawkley community.”

Neil Campbell, head of construction at the college, said: "Samson was a friendly, polite and hard-working student. Although he had only joined the college in September, he was determined to succeed within a future in plumbing.

"His teachers and fellow students are devastated by this sad news. Our condolences and thoughts are with his family and friends."

Three men, aged 17, 18 and 19, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are still being questioned by detectives about Samson's death.

Anyone with information about what happened is asked to call police on 0161 856 7094, quoting incident 1457 of October 4, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.