Matthew Jordan's family thanks Windermere searchers

The family of a student whose body was found in Windermere has thanked those who helped in the search operation.

Matthew Jordan, from Middlesbrough, was last seen early on 27 March in Bowness-on-Windermere after becoming separated from friends on a night out.

His body was discovered by a police marine unit on Tuesday. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

In a statement, the family of the 20-year-old thanked people for their "support and kind words and actions".

The statement added: "For those of you that knew him, it represents what a fantastic, friendly and humorous person he was.

"For those of you who didn't know him, yet still put a lot of your time and effort into searching for him, it shows that people in your community do care, are selfless, and have a wonderful team spirit.

"You have been truly fantastic and we feel part of the community now."

The family said that everyone had been a "great tower of strength... over the past few difficult weeks".

"You all took Matthew to your hearts and made it your mission to find him," the statement said.

"Without all of your help we would have been lost.

"We found you Matthew, we love you dearly and are taking you home to be at peace."