Family tribute to teen after beach disappearance

Chris Koppany was last seen at Binstead beach on Thursday

The family of a "cherished" teenager who went missing from an Isle of Wight beach have said he will remain in their hearts.

Police discovered the body of a man, believed to be 18-year-old Chris Koppany, on Saturday, after he failed to return from a swim at Binstead beach on Thursday evening.

His disappearance sparked an emergency response, with a search and rescue helicopter and lifeboat crews scouring the sea near Ryde.

In a tribute, his family described him as a "talented artist" who "touched the lives of complete strangers".

The teenager was reported missing following a swim in the sea

"Standing with a makeshift easel on the pavements of Ryde [he would chat] with anyone who stopped to admire his amazing artwork," they said.

"He was also a prolific and highly talented writer, particularly of poetry, which he would perform to spellbound audiences at folk clubs and Amnesty International IW Group."

The family thanked the emergency services, volunteers and search teams, adding they had been "overwhelmed" by messages of love and support.

They said: "We miss our beautiful Chris so much and feel privileged that he was part of our lives for nearly 19 years.

"Chris was a gift to us… always kind, patient, generous and gentle. He will remain in our hearts.”

His body was found by Isle of Wight police on Saturday morning

Ryde Academy, where Mr Koppany had been a student, previously emailed parents and carers to pay tribute to him.

Will Doyle, the school's vice-principal, said he would be remembered with "great fondness" by both staff and students.

"Chris was a wonderful, intelligent student and talented artist, he embodied the spirit of Ryde as he strived to be remarkable everyday," he added.