A search is on for a British man who has been missing for more than a week after going hiking in the mountains in Romania.
Brasov Mountain Rescue said George Smith, a Bristol University student from Shropshire, had been missing in the Buségi Mountains since November 23 despite daily searches.
It is believed that he was leaving Poiana Brasov and heading towards Bran, the site of Count Dracula’s castle. Mr Smith reached Tignesty, where he sought assistance via the 112 emergency number.
Mr Smith’s rugby club in Newport, Shropshire said he grew up through their junior section, is “a much-loved member of our club”, and its thoughts are with him, family and friends.
At the weekend it said everyone at the club was “very concerned to hear that George Smith has been reported missing while hiking the Bucegi mountain range in Romania”.
He had represented its colts the previous season and “often gave his full time to help train our youth age groups”.
“He has always been part of the Newport rugby family and this news has impacted us all,” the club said.
“As a club and a rugby family, we remain hopeful that George will be found safe and healthy, and hope that the ongoing search efforts in Romania will soon bring positive news.”
The club said it asked everyone to keep him and his family “in their hearts”.
A spokesperson for the University of Bristol said: “We have been informed that one of our students has been reported missing who went to Romania for independent hiking.”
“We are very concerned about his welfare and are in close contact with his family.
“Our thoughts are with them as they wait for any updates.”
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We are supporting the family of a missing British man in Romania and are in contact with local authorities.”
On Friday, the Mountain Rescue Service said he had been missing in the mountains since last Sunday evening, but had not been found despite “persistent efforts”.
Seva said the family asked her to share her photograph and asked anyone who has seen her or has any relevant information to contact Seva immediately or go to the nearest police station.
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