'We are bringing our boy home': Family of Galashiels man reported missing in Prague release statement after body found
Last updated 6th May 2024
The family of a 29-year-old man from Galashiels reported missing in Prague say they've been left "absolutely heartbroken" after police confirmed they'd found his body.
Joop Sparkes (pictured) vanished following a boat trip in the Czech capital just over a week ago.
His body was discovered close to where he was last seen on the river.
The sister of the construction worker - who was described as "a cherished son, brother, boyfriend, cousin and uncle" - says his loss has left "the biggest hole" in their hearts.
Posting on social media, Jodie Wilson said: "The family of Joop Sparkes would like to let you know that unfortunately it’s been confirmed as Joop's body recovered from the water last night.
"We are all absolutely heartbroken and this wasn’t the outcome we had hoped for 💔 but like we promised we are bringing our boy home 💙 xx
"We love you to the moon and back Joopster and you have left the biggest hole in our hearts ever x"
A GoFundMe page has raised more than £11,000 for Joop's family who travelled to Prague to aid in the search.
It's being reported the money raised will now go towards repatriating his body and covering funeral costs.
The Foreign Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Czech Republic and are in contact with the local authorities."
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/