George Smyth has been missing since November 23(Image: Family )
The relatives of a student who disappeared whilst trekking solo in the Romanian mountains have expressed their heartbreak following their “sudden loss”.
George Smyth, a University of Bristol student, from Newport in Shropshire, has been missing in the snow-covered mountains near Dracula’s Castle in Romania since November 23.
His mobile phone last registered a signal close to the Tiganesti Valley, a remote, elevated area standing 6,562 feet above sea level, where he made a desperate call to emergency services saying he was exhausted and suffering from hypothermia.
In the subsequent weeks search and rescue operations scoured the region despite difficult weather but failed to find the missing teenager.
George’s family has now issued a statement via the rugby club he played for, Newport Salop RUFC, detailing their “immense grief and sadness” over his loss and paying tribute to him.
The statement reads: “To everyone that has been affected by George’s sudden loss, we are deeply sorry for the pain we all share. Thank you for your support, which has been a huge help to us during this desperate time. We are incredibly moved by your love for George, which is a fitting reflection of what he means to us all.
“George was a phenomenally kind and selfless person, fiercely loyal to his friends and full of energy and enthusiasm for everything he did. We will never forget George’s unique character. He brought so much to our lives and had more impact on the world during his eighteen years than many people achieve over much longer periods.”
His family said they have found comfort in sharing memories of George with those closest to him, stating that “when the mountains that took him are ready to let go, George will be found” and he will be returned home.
The statement went on: “It is cruel beyond belief that George is now lost to us, but we are so lucky to have known him and will treasure every moment we spent together, despite our immense grief and sadness that we can no longer see him, speak to him or hold him in our arms.
“When the mountains that took him are ready to let go, George will be found, and we will bring him home to say goodbye. While we are waiting for this, we would very much like to hear your stories and share some of your memories of George.
“We have already taken great comfort in reminiscing with family and friends and talking (and laughing) about the adventures we shared and our fondest memories of George.
“We would be hugely grateful if you would help us to commemorate his life by sharing your own thoughts and memories of George, whether they are short, long, poignant, funny, serious, daft or whatever else you remember / want to say about him. Thank you and much love from the Smyth family.”
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