News / University of Bristol
Tributes paid to Bristol Uni student missing in Romanian mountains
The family of an 18-year-old University of Bristol student who disappeared in Romania’s Bucegi Mountains has issued a tribute calling him a “phenomenally kind and selfless person”.
George Smyth, from Newport in Shropshire, has been missing since November 23, according to Brașov mountain rescue.
His family has expressed “immense grief and sadness” but also gratitude for having known him, stating they will bring him home “when the mountains that took him are ready to let go”.
George was trekking in the snowy mountains of Romania on November 23 when he called mountain rescue services to report he was suffering from hypothermia and exhaustion.
In a statement issued by Smyth’s family through the rugby club the teenager played for, George’s family said: “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.
“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.”
His family asked people to help them commemorate George’s life by sharing their memories of him.
Main photo: family
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