An 18-year-old college student has tragically died while participating in a Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) expedition in Wales. Emergency services were called to the River Wye in Glasbury, Powys, on Tuesday evening after reports that the teenager had entered the water and could not be found.
Search and Recovery Operation
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that a multi-agency operation was launched at 6.30pm, involving Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Mountain Rescue, and the National Police Air Service. The body of the male was located following an extensive search. A police spokesperson said: "Sadly, the body of a male has been located. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time. Emergency services remain in the area and ask that members of the public stay away while enquiries continue."
DofE Statement
A DofE spokeswoman confirmed the teenager was on a trip as part of his DofE expedition. She said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that a young person has drowned while on a DofE expedition in Powys, Wales. Our thoughts are with the young person’s family, together with all those who were taking part. We will do everything we can to support them at this difficult time. DofE is liaising closely with the young person’s college and relevant authorities to understand how this tragic incident happened. We are offering our full support."
Investigation Ongoing
The incident has prompted an investigation by authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the drowning. The college attended by the student has not been named, but it has been confirmed that the teenager was on the expedition as part of his DofE award. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a youth program that encourages personal development through expeditions, volunteering, and skill-building activities.
