Sky News‘ regular programming was halted for major breaking news as presenter Jayne Secker issued an update in the ongoing search for Michael Henry. The broadcaster announced: “Just bringing you some breaking news from the police in Northumbria. They have found a body in their search for 19-year-old Michael Henry, from the Rothbury area.” Jayne shared that he “went missing after falling from a kayak off the coast near Boulmer off the north-east coast.”
She added: “A body was located off the coast of Blyth on July 26. Formal identification has since taken place; he was from the Rothbury area at the time when he went missing. Family say he was a ‘much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, team-mate and friend, a keen sportsman who loved the outdoors.'” Jayne went on: “‘He was preparing to go travelling this summer and then on to university the next academic year.
Michael Henry went missing off the coast of Northumberland (Image: Northumbria Police/Facebook)
“‘He will be forever in our thoughts, and we will miss him,'” the Sky News presenter shared.
Michael was one of two men on a kayak near Boulmer when it capsized on the evening of July 7, Northumbria Police said.
The other man was able to reach a nearby buoy, where he was later rescued by the coastguard. Extensive search efforts at sea had been carried out to find Michael. But on Wednesday, Northumbria Police announced that the operation had been concluded. The force reiterated its belief that the teenager tragically lost his life in the incident.
In their full statement, Michael’s family said: “We would like to thank everyone for all their love, kindness and support now and throughout Michael’s life; it was that love and kindness that made him the marvellous person he was.
“Michael was a much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, team-mate and friend; a keen sportsman who loved the outdoors.
“Michael was preparing to go travelling this summer and hoping to start university next academic year. Michael will be forever in our thoughts, and we will miss him.
“Our thanks go to the emergency services and everyone who is helping to search for Michael.”
Chief Inspector Jon Caisley said: “This is a tragic update to share, and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Michael’s family and friends.
“Despite extensive searches at sea and on the coast, we have been unable to find Michael, and he is sadly believed to have died at sea. We know the impact this news will have upon his loved ones and the wider community.”
He added: “I would also like to thank all of our officers and partners for their assistance in the search efforts to find Michael. We would continue to ask that people respect the family’s privacy at this time.”
