A body has been found in the search for an 18-year-old man named George, who had been missing for more than a week. The body was recovered on Sunday morning from water at a coastal location near Newport, according to a statement from Avon and Somerset Police.
Search and recovery
George, from Portishead, a seaside town in north Somerset, went missing from that area at around 8.20pm on September 17. In the following days, a large-scale search was carried out by the police, coastguard, RNLI and other services.
Police statement
An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "The items of clothing worn by the man matched those George had last been seen wearing in Portishead on Thursday, September 17."
"As a matter of routine, a formal identification process will need to be undertaken. However, we have informed George’s family of this latest development and are continuing to provide them with support through a specially trained officer."
The death is not being treated as suspicious and will be a matter for the coroner going forward.
Family's request for privacy
The spokesperson added: "While George’s family have been touched by all the offers of support they have received recently, quite understandably they are requesting their privacy is respected at this time."
"Finally, we would like to thank everyone who called in with information and shared our appeals, as well as Gwent Police and the RNLI for their involvement today."
During the search last week, neighbourhood chief inspector Andy Barry said: "I would like to recognise the strength and resilience of George’s family during this time and we continue to keep them updated through a specialist liaison officer."
