University of Bristol student George Smyth disappeared while hiking in mountains covered in thick snow by Dracula’s castle in Romania, sparking a major search

George disappeared while hiking(Image: NX)

The family of a British student who went missing while hiking have shared a tragic update over their “loss”.

George Smyth, 18, who was studying at the University of Bristol, has been missing in mountains covered in thick snow by Dracula’s castle in Romania since November 23. George’s phone last had a signal near the Tiganesti Valley, an isolated, high-altitude location 6,562ft above sea level, where he made his desperate call to emergency services, saying he was exhausted and suffering from hypothermia.

Since then rescue teams searched the area through challenging weather conditions but were unable to locate the missing teenager from Newport, Shropshire. And now they have temporarily suspended the search due to the “high and persistent avalanche risk in the area”.

George’s family has now issued a statement via the rugby club he played for, Newport Salop RUFC, telling of their “immense grief and sadness” and paying tribute to him.

Rescue teams have been looking for George in Romania(Image: NX)

The statement 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.”

Authorities in Romania believe George set off from Poiana Brasov and had planned to walk to the village of Bran, which is well known for being the home of Dracula at Bran Castle.

George is believed to have been heading to Bran Castle(Image: Sophie Goodall/PA)

His family said they have taken comfort in sharing memories of George with his loved ones and friends, adding that “when the mountains that took him are ready to let go, George will be found” and he will be brought home.

The statement continued: “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. While we are waiting for this, we would very much like to hear your stories and share some of your memories of George.

“We have already taken great comfort in reminiscing with family and friends and talking (and laughing) about the adventures we shared and our fondest memories of George.

“We would be hugely grateful if you would help us to commemorate his life by sharing your own thoughts and memories of George, whether they are short, long, poignant, funny, serious, daft or whatever else you remember / want to say about him. Thank you and much love from the Smyth family.”