Duke of Edinburgh participant, 18, drowns during expedition in Wales

An 18-year-old college student has drowned while participating in a Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) expedition in Wales, authorities have confirmed.

The young man entered the River Wye at Glasbury in Powys on Tuesday evening and could not be found, prompting an extensive search operation.

His body was recovered later that night following efforts by multiple emergency services.

The DofE organisation confirmed that the teenager had been undertaking an expedition when the fatal incident occurred.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

A DofE spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that a young person has drowned while on a DofE expedition in Powys, Wales."

The spokesperson added: "Our thoughts are with the young person's family, together with all those who were taking part. We will do everything we can to support them at this difficult time."

Dyfed-Powys Police received reports at approximately 6.30pm on Tuesday that the 18-year-old had gone into the water and subsequently vanished.

A substantial multi-agency operation was swiftly mobilised to locate the missing teenager.

Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police coordinated the search alongside Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and mountain rescue volunteers.

The National Police Air Service also deployed resources to assist with the operation.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokeswoman said: "Sadly, the body of a male has been located. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time."

The force requested that members of the public avoid the area while investigations continued.

LATEST ROYAL NEWS

• Prince William issues cheeky verdict after England survive DR Congo scare
• Duchess of Edinburgh makes dramatic appearance change as she debuts new look
• JK Rowling sends support to Catherine after talks with Queen Camilla

Emergency personnel remained at the scene following the recovery of the body as enquiries into the circumstances proceeded.

DofE has pledged its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the drowning.

The organisation confirmed it is working closely with the student's college and relevant authorities to establish precisely how the tragedy unfolded.

The spokesperson stated: "DofE is liaising closely with the young person's college and relevant authorities to understand how this tragic incident happened. We are offering our full support."

The organisation has committed to providing assistance to all those affected by the incident, including fellow expedition participants who witnessed the events.

The DofE Award scheme, which encourages young people to undertake challenging outdoor activities, attracts thousands of participants across Britain each year.

Investigations by both the police and the award organisation are expected to continue in the coming days.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter