The family of UWE student Sebastian Sailes has said they are ‘shattered’ after a body was recovered from a river by police in a search for the 21-year-old. In a moving tribute to the young man, his family said the ‘remarkable’ young man will forever be remembered.
Sebastian’s family has also thanked the tireless work of emergency services and the support of their community and volunteers who found and recovered his body.
In a statement provided to Wiltshire Police, Sebastian’s family said: “As we try to come to terms with the loss of our beautiful son Sebastian, we specifically want to express our sincere appreciation for the incredible support we have had from the wider community.
“Sadly, bad things happen to good people, but the outpouring of support from this country and far beyond has been truly inspiring and reminded us that this world is blessed with many decent and loving people.
“We would also like to acknowledge Wiltshire Police, whose dedication, commitment and empathy were truly outstanding.
“The additional police support from Avon & Somerset, Devon & Cornwall, The Metropolitan Police, the WILSAR and OXSAR teams and the host of volunteers who spread awareness and helped with the search was also heart-warming.
“As a family we are shattered by Seb’s passing and each day try to find the strength to remember the remarkable young man he had become.
“Anyone who ever knew him will remember his enthusiasm and passion for life, but above all his kind and generous spirit.
“He will forever be in our hearts and minds.”
Sebastian was last seen walking along Lovers Walk in Chippenham around 11.30pm on Thursday, February 27, after he left the Black Horse Pub.
It is thought Sebastian headed south on Avon Valley Walk towards his home in Notton.
A major search was launched to find the missing 21-year-old but a body was recovered from the River Avon in Chippenham on Tuesday, March 11.
Others have left messages on social media paying respect and offering condolences to those who knew Sebastian.