Sky News interrupted its regular programming on Monday evening as presenter Jayne Secker delivered a major update in the ongoing search for 19-year-old Michael Henry. The broadcaster announced that police in Northumbria had found a body in their search for the teenager, from the Rothbury area.
Michael went missing after falling from a kayak off the coast near Boulmer on the north-east coast. A body was located off the coast of Blyth on July 26, with formal identification since taking place. His family described him as a 'much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, team-mate and friend, a keen sportsman who loved the outdoors.'
Family's Tribute
In a full statement, Michael's family expressed their gratitude: "We would like to thank everyone for all their love, kindness and support now and throughout Michael’s life; it was that love and kindness that made him the marvellous person he was."
They added: "Michael was preparing to go travelling this summer and hoping to start university next academic year. Michael will be forever in our thoughts, and we will miss him. Our thanks go to the emergency services and everyone who is helping to search for Michael."
Police Update
Michael was one of two men on a kayak near Boulmer when it capsized on the evening of July 7, according to Northumbria Police. The other man managed to reach a nearby buoy, where he was later rescued by the coastguard. Extensive searches at sea had been carried out to find Michael, but on Wednesday, police announced the operation had concluded.
Chief Inspector Jon Caisley said: "This is a tragic update to share, and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Michael’s family and friends. Despite extensive searches at sea and on the coast, we have been unable to find Michael, and he is sadly believed to have died at sea."
He added: "I would also like to thank all of our officers and partners for their assistance in the search efforts to find Michael. We would continue to ask that people respect the family’s privacy at this time."
