Joseph Bellamy went missing in December (Image: Gwent Police)
Police have found and identified the body of teenager Joseph Bellamy after he went missing at the end of last year. Gwent Police confirmed that a teenage boy’s body was found near the village of Northington, Gloucestershire on Sunday, March 9.
On March 12, the police confirmed that the body was Joseph and that they were supporting his family during what is a “difficult time”.
A spokesperson for Gwent Police said: “The body of a teenage boy was found near the village of Northington, Gloucestershire on Sunday 9 March. Formal identification has taken place, and he was identified as Joseph Bellamy, 18, who was reported missing in December 2024.
“His family have been informed, and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. The family of Joseph Bellamy has requested privacy and space during this difficult time.”
Natasha Lee Bellamy, Josphe’s mum, had urged her son to come home, adding: “We all need you here with us. Everything can be fixed, and made better. Whatever it is.
“Please, please come home to us. We all love you so much. You are wanted by all of your family. Me & you can work things out step by step, side by side. Always here for you, forever Mum.”
His aunt Demelsa Coleman also said after he went missing: “Our family are worried out their minds for my nephew Joseph who’s been missing since 1am.”
In a message to the teenager, she said: “We love you so much darling. Your mum, John, Jake, Fred and Frank and ALL of us want you home safe.”
Joseph had not been seen since he left his home in Caldicot on December 3, 2024. CCTV images later showed him riding a red bicycle towards the M48 bridge. After he was reported missing, Gwent Police launched an investigation to locate him.
The tragedy follows the death of Jenny Hall in County Durham. Jenny, 23, went missing on February 18, after leaving her home in Tow Law to go running.
On February 23 Durham Constabularly said: “We’re sorry to report that officers searching for missing woman Jenny Hall, have sadly found a body.
“Officers carried out an extensive search alongside specialist partners and have been working around-the-clock to locate Jenny after she went missing on February 18.
“The body was found in a very remote area in Teesdale just after 9.30am today. Formal identification has yet to take place. Jenny’s family have been notified and are currently being supported by specialist officers. They have asked for privacy at this devasting time.
“It is not believed there are any suspicious circumstances and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”