Tributes are being paid to an 18-year-old who went missing on a hiking trip to the Romanian mountains.

George Smyth, a University of Bristol student from Shropshire, had been missing since 23 November in the Bucegi mountains, despite daily searches, Brașov Mountain Rescue said.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed they had been notified by Romanian local authorities that a body had been found in the region. While formal identification has not yet taken place, the body is believed to be his.

“We are all devastated by George’s death. He was the best of us and is deeply missed by his younger brothers, family and friends,” his family said.

They added: “We want to thank Salvamont Mountain Rescue, who have worked tirelessly since November searching for George; despite very difficult and often dangerous conditions. They are an amazing team, and have remained in constant communication, helping us greatly throughout this awful time.

“We would also like to thank Avon and Somerset Police and University of Bristol, who have gone above and beyond to try and find George, and to support us as a family.

“Although this latest news is incredibly painful, the torture of waiting is finally over, so we can now focus on bringing George home and saying goodbye. We would appreciate privacy while we continue to come to terms with this loss.”

Prior to going missing Smyth had contacted rescuers from Tiganesti to say he was disoriented and physically exhausted.

At the time, rescuers said he was in a “very isolated and hard-to-access mountain area” and the weather conditions were extremely severe with strong winds, heavy snowfall, and dense fog.

After news of his disappearance first broke, Smyth’s former school, Haberdashers’ Adams in Newport, said: “We are deeply concerned and saddened to learn that our much-loved and cherished former student, George Smyth, has been reported missing while hiking in the Bucegi Mountain Range in Romania.”

Smyth’s rugby club, Newport (Salop) RUFC, had been following the search effort for him and posting verified updates when possible.

They previously spoke about how Smyth was a valued member of the group.

“George is a much-loved member of our club”, they said. “He grew up through our junior section, represented our Colts last season, and has often given his time wholeheartedly to help coach our younger age groups.”

Police said forensic enquiries would take place to confirm the identity and then efforts would be made to repatriate the body to Bristol.

They added: “George’s family have expressed their sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported in the search for George, especially those in Romania, but they now request privacy and time to process and grieve.”

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