Body found in forest confirmed as missing diplomat Richard Morris

Hampshire police says they found the remains of the missing 52-year-old on August 31 in Alice Holt Forest.

Mr Morris, who was UK ambassador to Nepal until last year, was last seen on the morning of May 6, after leaving to go running from his home in Bentley near Farnham

The force says that his family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

• Body found in hunt for missing diplomat Richard Morris

Paying tribute to him today, his family said: “From childhood European holidays via a US university scholarship to Ambassador to Nepal, Richard loved to travel.

“Described as funny, kind and smart by his diplomatic colleagues, he worked for the FCO with professionalism and integrity for nearly 30 years.

Richard Morris

“His empathy and kindness to those around him earned him respect wherever he went, evidenced by the messages of love, friendship and support we have received from all over the world.

“Richard was always a runner, cheerfully describing himself as "more of an enthusiastic weekend trail runner than podium finisher". Nevertheless he had completed five marathons on four continents, most recently in Nepal, where he raised money for Changing Faces - the UK charity of which he was a trustee.

“But above all else, Richard was a family man. A loving and loyal husband, father, son and brother. He showed us the world but he was our world and we are devastated by his loss.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the organisations and individuals who have supported us over the past few months.”

Hampshire Constabulary says it "would like to thank all of those who have kept vigilant, helped in the search for Richard and assisted the investigation".