'We'll meet again in Heaven': Amelia Bambridge's brother pays emotional tribute after body found at sea
The brother of British backpacker Amelia Bambridge has paid an emotional tribute to his “little sister” after her body was found at sea more than 30 miles from where she disappeared.
Amelia, 21, from Worthing, West Sussex, was last seen on the island of Koh Rong late on October 23.
Cambodian Police confirmed this morning that Amelia’s body was discovered in the Gulf of Thailand, north west of Koh Rong.
Following the announcement that her body had been found at sea, her brother Harry Bambridge confirmed the news on Instagram.
He said: “I’ve just seen her and I can confirm it’s my little sister Amelia.
“I’m so sorry to all her friends and family, there’s nothing more I wanted then (sic) to bring her back alive and I really f****** tried.
“And I’m sorry to you, Amelia Bambridge, the round is on me when we meet again in heaven.”
Amelia was reported missing after she failed to check out of her hotel on time and staff at Police Beach, a private venue on the island, found her purple rucksack with her purse, phone and bank cards inside the following morning.
READ MORE
British backpacker was ‘having the best time’ before disappearance, says sister
Missing backpacker’s brother arrives in Cambodia to help search
It was found near another island, Koh Chhlam, close to Cambodia’s maritime border with Thailand, Major General Chuon Narin said.
Missing persons charity the Lucie Blackman Trust reported the discovery of the body on Thursday morning, describing it as “tragic news”.
The charity said on Twitter: “We are aware of the very tragic news from Cambodia.
“Amelia Bambridge’s body has been found at sea.”
Tim Loughton, MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, said: “Devastated to hear the terribly sad news about Amelia Bambridge this morning – the thoughts and prayers of everyone in Worthing are with her family and friends.”
Amelia’s family had flown out to Cambodia to join the search, which involved up to 150 police and military personnel.
It has emerged that the 21-year-old phoned her sister just hours before she went missing and said she was having “the best time ever”.
CCTV showed her on the way to the party.
The Foreign Office said its staff are on the island, are in contact with the Cambodian authorities responsible for carrying out the identification and continue to support Miss Bambridge’s family.