Search for teen kayaker missing at sea called off
Family handoutA search for a teenage kayaker who went missing at sea has been called off.
Emergency services were called to an area near Boulmer, in Northumberland, shortly after 21:15 BST on Tuesday 7 July with two men reported to be in the water after their craft capsized.
One managed to swim to a buoy where he was rescued by the coastguard, but a search was launched for the other man, who police have now named as 19-year-old Michael Henry, from the Rothbury area.
In a tribute, his family said he had been "preparing to go travelling this summer and hoping to start university [in the] next academic year".
Thanking emergency services and members of the public for their support and search efforts, Michael's family described him as a "keen sportsman who loved the outdoors".
They added: "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."
Ch Insp Jon Caisley, of Northumbria Police, said: "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."
