MISSING Joanne Jones’ body has been found six days after she was last seen on CCTV smiling as she walked into a “dangerous” forest alone.
A body was found in the hunt for the 49-year-old close to her home in Llanwonno, Wales, on Friday. Cops confirmed yesterday it belonged to the missing hiker.
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Cops previously released images taken on Graigwen Road at around 10.05am on October 21.
Joanne was seen wearing a waterproof jacket, boots and was carrying a rucksack.
In one of the images, the missing hiker smiled and waved at a passing motorist.
Police also said she was spotted near the Brynfynnon Hotel at around 12.45pm.
It is the last confirmed sighting of the hiker before she headed towards St Gwynno Forest.
A huge search was launched involving helicopters, police dogs, drones and mountain rescue experts.
Detective Chief Inspector Emma Hampton said: “I want to express my sympathies to Joanne’s family at what is a very sad time for them.
“I also want to thank our emergency services colleagues and members of the public who assisted in our search effort over the last week.
“I can also confirm that we are not treating Joanne’s death as suspicious.”
Joanne’s family has expressed their gratitude to officers and local residents for their efforts throughout the past week.
The 2,644-hectare St Gwynno Forest is a rugged area, home to a handful of sheep farms, and a popular beauty spot for walkers and cyclists.
The legendary 18th-century runner Guto Nyth Bran is buried in the St Gwynno church in the village where a statue to him stands outside.
On Friday, a team of volunteers met at nearby Ynysybwl Rugby Club where they were briefed by police on joining in the search.
They scoured fields, woods, and urban areas in the village.
Scent dogs and police on horseback also joined the search.
Phillip Evans, 70, said at the time he wanted to help the “community-minded” effort.
He said: “If we can search these areas it helps the police to use their assets to search other areas.”
Hours later the body was found.
TRIBUTES
Friends and family have taken to social media to pay tribute.
Helena Worth said: “Devastated. I had the pleasure of working with and knowing for many years.
“JoJo, you were such a beautiful person inside and out.
“You always had a smile for everyone and nothing was ever too much trouble. Sending lots of love to Nick and the rest of the family.”
Clare Hodges said: “Heartbroken to see this update.
“So much love to Nick, Helen and the rest of her family and friends, and huge thanks to those working so hard to search for her. RIP Jo.”
Jayne Lissa Hobby said: “Aw no, Jo was one of the loveliest people I had the pleasure of knowing and working with, rest in peace beautiful lady.
“Condolences to Nic and Jo’s family.”
Annie-Marie Thomas said: “Such sad news. Jo was the nicest person you could meet, her lovely smile would light up any room. Sleep tight. Condolences to all her family.”
Catherine Marin said: “To all who searched for Jo, supported her family and shared the updates far and wide, thank you.
“We have lost the kindest soul, she would have been so shocked that so many care so much.
“I will miss my beautiful friend so very much. Jo adored Halloween so please, light those pumpkins up and think of this lady full of light and kindness.”
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