The family of Ben Savage have thanked rescue teams, as a body found in the river last week was formally identified as him.

The last sighting of the 18-year-old was in Sun Pier, Chatham, in the early hours of December 6, 2016. He was reported missing that same morning.

His body was found in the Strood side of the River Medway last Wednesday and has now been formally identified.

His family today said: "We, Ben's family, would like to thank everyone for their support over these difficult and confusing couple of months.

"Thousands of people were touched by Ben's story and their support went some way to comfort us all.

"We'd also like to thank Kent Police, Kent Police Marine Unit, Metropolitan Police Divers, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Kent Search and Rescue, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, the Coastguard and the rest of the emergency services for their professionalism, empathy and tireless efforts.

"Finally, we'd like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the public who spotted Ben and the policeman who held on to him for almost an hour until the rescue team were able to rescue him.

"You've given us some closure and we're so very grateful.

"This is a heart breaking time for everyone and so we, Ben's family, now ask for some time and space to grieve.

"Funeral details will be shared, once confirmed, for us all to celebrate Ben's life together."

An inquest into Ben's death is due to be open today at the Archbishop’s Palace in Maidstone.