The funeral of a Belfast man found dead in Spain last week has been postponed until further notice, his family has confirmed.
John George’s body was found last Tuesday in Rojales, around 40 minutes south of Alicante, under trees on a farm nearly three weeks after he was reported missing.
His disappearance on December 14 prompted a huge search, with supporters flying out to aid the family as they searched for their loved one’s remains.
John’s funeral had been due to take place on Friday January 24, but his sister Courtney has now confirmed it has been postponed.
“All funeral arrangements cancelled until further notice due to circumstances beyond our control,” she posted on social media.
“Updated arrangements will follow in due course.”
The father-of-two’s remains were flown into Dublin from Spain on Thursday night, where they were collected by undertakers from O’Neill’s Funeral Directors, to be driven across the border.
A funeral notice described the 37-year-old as the devoted father of Jason and Jacob, beloved brother of Darren, Courtney and Caitlyn, and cherished partner of Danielle.
“John will be missed by his heartbroken sons, parents, brother, sisters, partner and all those who knew and loved him,” it said.
“Arrangements will be published online as soon as they are confirmed.”
John George’s family arrive home from Spain, pictured at Belfast International Airport. Pic: Press Eye
Books of condolence are open in both of O’Neill Funeral Directors’ premises on the Stewartstown and Falls roads in Belfast.
Spanish police continue to investigate the murder of Mr George.
A 32-year-old man from the Czech Republic has been arrested and was later released on bail pending further investigation.
Spanish authorities are also looking for a second suspect who may have fled the area following the murder.
Mr George last spoke to his family on December 14.
They were later informed by people in Spain that he had lost his phone but was booked onto a flight from Alicante to Belfast on December 18.
Interpol is also assisting the Spanish authorities with the murder probe.