'Deepest sorrow' as Royal Welsh soldier dies

Wales Online

3 days ago

'Deepest sorrow' as Royal Welsh soldier dies
Stephen Hughes, 25, was "a top bloke" said friends
Stephen Hughes from the Royal Welsh Regiment was reported as missing on Tuesday
(Image: OnlyForces)
Tributes have been paid to a "genuine and caring" soldier found dead in the Menai Strait on Tuesday evening. Stephen Hughes, 25, was a corporal in the 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh. The regiment said the news of his death has been met with the "deepest sorrow".
Cpl Hughes was reported missing from Bethel in Gwynedd at around 8.30pm on Tuesday, August 12. His body was then tragically discovered in the Menai Strait shortly after 11.30pm that night. His friends had launched their own appeal on social media to find Stephen, who is known to most as Steve.
In a short statement issued on Thursday, the Royal Welsh said: "It is with the deepest sorrow that 1st Bn The Royal Welsh must confirm the tragic loss of Cpl Stephen Hughes, 25.
"He was a much loved member of Mortar Platoon and his loss has been deeply felt within the Battalion and wider regimental family."
Nathan Gilbertson said: "I spent 11 months in Harrogate with Hughes, in the same platoon - he was a top bloke.
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"He was such a huge advocate for helping others, even ran his own Facebook page supporting men that are struggling. 25 is too young man. Rest easy brother."
Steve was one of the founding members and moderators of Lads Advice, a peer support group where men can talk openly, seek help, and offer support to others.
Police said no suspicious circumstances are thought to be linked to his death. Chief Insp Jon Aspinall said: 'My thoughts are with Stephen's family, who are being supported by officers.
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'The coroner has been updated and there are thought to be no suspicious circumstances.'