Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 17th March 2025, at 17:45hrs
The community of Chippenham is in deep mourning following the tragic recovery of 21-year-old Sebastian Sailes’ body from the River Avon on Tuesday, March 11th.
Sebastian had been missing since Thursday, February 27th, when he was last seen leaving the Black Horse Pub.
In a poignant statement, Sebastian’s family expressed their profound grief while also conveying their immense gratitude for the overwhelming support they received during the search.
“As we try to come to terms with the loss of our beautiful son Sebastian, we specifically want to express our sincere appreciation for the incredible support we have had from the wider community,” the family wrote.
Their tribute highlighted the remarkable outpouring of compassion from both local residents and individuals across the country and beyond.
“Sadly, bad things happen to good people, but the outpouring of support from this country and far beyond has been truly inspiring and reminded us that this world is blessed with many decent and loving people,” they stated.
The family also extended their heartfelt thanks to Wiltshire Police for their unwavering dedication and empathy.
“We would also like to acknowledge Wiltshire Police, whose dedication, commitment and empathy were truly outstanding,” they said.
They further acknowledged the collaborative efforts of other police forces, including Avon & Somerset, Devon & Cornwall, and the Metropolitan Police, as well as the invaluable contributions of the WILSAR and OXSAR search and rescue teams, and the numerous volunteers who assisted in the search.
“The additional police support… and the host of volunteers who spread awareness and helped with the search was also heartwarming,” they added.
The family’s statement conveyed the depth of their sorrow while celebrating the life of a beloved young man.
“As a family we are shattered by Seb’s passing and each day try to find the strength to remember the remarkable young man he had become,” they wrote.
They fondly remembered Sebastian’s vibrant spirit and kind nature.
“Anyone who ever knew him will remember his enthusiasm and passion for life, but above all his kind and generous spirit,” they recalled.
“He will forever be in our hearts and minds,” the family concluded, their words a testament to the lasting impact Sebastian had on those around him.
The community of Chippenham, along with those who followed the search, now join Sebastian’s family in mourning his loss, remembering a young life tragically cut short.
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