Mark Counsell: Family 'broken' as body of British man found in Malaysia after last seen on Christmas Day
A body of a British man has been found in Malaysia leaving his family “broken”.
Mark Counsell, 31, from Pontypool, Torfaen, was travelling in south-east Asia but disappeared after calling his family to wish them a happy holiday. Gwent Policeappealed for information earlier this week after Mark Counsell was reported missing.
They said the 31-year-old from Pontypool was last seen via a video call to his loved ones on Christmas Day between 9am and 10am. It was believed Mr Counsell was in Thailand or the Kuala Lumpur area of Malaysia.
Now, a body believed to be that of the Welsh man has been found. A Gwent Police spokesperson said: "We received a report that a body of a man had been found by Malaysian police on Wednesday 7 January.
"Formal identification has not yet taken place, but the family of missing man Mark Counsell have been informed." The force said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
"Our thoughts are with Mark's family and friends at this difficult time," they added. The family of Mark are now fundraising on GoFundMe to bring his body back home to the UK.
It says: “It is with a broken heart we share the tragic loss of my brother, Mark Counsell who passed away while travelling in Kualar Lumpur. As we navigate through this incredibly difficult time, we are facing a financial burden we never imagined—one that is hard to bear in addition to our grief.
“Unfortunately, my brother did not have insurance or any possessions that could help us with the costs associated with bringing his body back home to us. The overwhelming love and support that has been shown by all that knew Mark, has brought the family comfort.
“Therefore, we are asking for your help for the expenses involved in returning him and honoring his memory. To get him back home is beyond what we can manage on our own, so we are reaching out to ask for your help.”
It adds: “He was well known and was much loved by his friends and family for his wild characteristics and his funny well quipped jokes. He always had the ability to leave a lasting impression on everyone he met as if it was his goal. He lived for the moment, was fearless and full of adventure.”