A body has been found in the search for a missing British teenager who went missing while hiking in Romania.

George Smyth, a geology university student from Bristol, went missing in November last year trying to hike to Bran, the village known for its castle suggested to be the home of Dracula.

Avon and Somerset Police said a body has been found in the Bucegi Mountain region of the country, which is believed to be that of Mr Smyth, although formal identification has yet to take place.

Officers have informed Mr Smyth’s family of the development and are being supported by a family liaison officer. They shared a statement expressing gratitude to those who have supported the search for Mr Smyth and asked for privacy and time to grieve and process what has happened.

Mr Smyth’s family said: “We are all devastated by George’s death. He was the best of us and is deeply missed by his younger brothers, family and friends.

“We want to thank Salvamont Mountain Rescue, who have worked tirelessly since November searching for George; despite very difficult and often dangerous conditions. They are an amazing team, and have remained in constant communication, helping us greatly throughout this awful time.

“We would also like to thank Avon and Somerset Police and University of Bristol, who have gone above and beyond to try and find George, and to support us as a family.

“Although this latest news is incredibly painful, the torture of waiting is finally over, so we can now focus on bringing George home and saying goodbye. We would appreciate privacy while we continue to come to terms with this loss.”

The teenager went missing on a hike near Bran Castle last year after he set off from the Poiana Brasov neighbourhood last November, rescuers said.

The teenager reached Tiganesti Valley, where he made the call to rescue teams. Mountain rescuers, thermal imaging cameras, sniffer dogs, and a Black Hawk helicopter were mobilised as part of the operation, which was hindered by adverse weather with snow reaching more than 2m deep.

Forensic enquiries are set to take place in order to confirm the identity of the body before the deceased will return to Bristol.