BODY FOUND IN SEARCH FOR MISSING 18-YEAR-OLD GEORGE AFTER 11-DAY COASTAL SEARCH

A body has been recovered from coastal waters near Newport during the search for an 18-year-old man who disappeared more than 10 days ago.

George, from Portishead, Somerset, was last seen at around 8:20 p.m. on Thursday, September 17, in the coastal town.

His disappearance prompted an extensive search involving police officers, coastguard teams, the RNLI and other emergency services.

After days of searching, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that a body was recovered from a coastal location near Newport on the morning of Sunday, September 27.

Police said the clothing found on the body matched what George had been wearing when he was last seen.

However, a formal identification has not yet taken place.

George’s family has been informed of the discovery and is being supported by a specially trained officer, police said.

SEARCH CONTINUED FOR MORE THAN 10 DAYS

George’s disappearance led to repeated appeals for information as emergency crews searched areas around the coastline.

Police, coastguard personnel, RNLI teams and other emergency responders were involved in efforts to locate him.

Authorities had urged members of the public to come forward with any information that could help establish what happened to the teenager.

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Andy Barry previously acknowledged the difficult circumstances facing George’s family, praising their “strength and resilience” during the search.

He said police had continued to keep the family informed through a specialist liaison officer.

DEATH NOT BEING TREATED AS SUSPICIOUS

Police have said the death is not currently being treated as suspicious.

The case will now be referred to the coroner, who will oversee the formal process surrounding the death.

Until the identification process is completed, authorities have not formally confirmed that the recovered body is George.

The discovery nevertheless marks a devastating development for a family that had spent more than a week waiting for news of their missing loved one.

George’s family has also expressed gratitude for the support they received during the search.

As investigators and the coroner continue their work, the circumstances surrounding the young man’s disappearance and death remain under investigation.