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Charity closes after director's death at warehouse

Tony Fisher/BBC The outside of a warehouse in Milton Keynes where the MK Reuse charity is based. Outside is grass covered in autumn leaves and the branches of trees. The building looks like a pre-fab warehouse, it is a cream colour and is covered in panels with moulded squares. There are bright yellow doors and posters around the doors.Tony Fisher/BBC
The charity director's body was found at its warehouse, where there had been a small fire

A recycling charity said it had closed "until further notice" after the death of its director.

The body of John Mann was found at a warehouse used by Reuse Community Project MK in Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes.

Emergency services were called shortly after 01:00 GMT on Wednesday, and police said Mr Mann’s death was being treated as "unexplained but not suspicious".

The MK Community Foundation, which rents the site, said it was "deeply shocked and saddened".

Buckinghamshire Fire Service was called to a small fire in the building, which houses second-hand furniture and household goods.

The Reuse Community Project aims to "alleviate poverty, reduce waste and tackle climate change by reducing carbon emissions".

In 2022, the charity told the BBC its rent was doubling because the MK Community Foundation claimed it could no longer afford to subsidise the rent.

The MK Community Foundation said: "Reuse Community Project MK has been a long-standing tenant of our property at Kiln Farm and it’s been a pleasure to support the group and their important work.

"John’s death will be a great loss to the charity sector and all of those who Reuse supported.

"We send our condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time."

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