The wife of TV doctor Michael Mosley has spoken of her "devastating" sense of loss after he was found dead following a huge five-day search.
His body was discovered in a rocky area on Greek island of Symi on Sunday after an extensive search led by emergency workers. He was first reported missing on Wednesday. The 67-year-old TV personality had been with his wife and friends at Agios Nikolaos beach, before going alone for a walk to the centre of the island.
He was found on Sunday beneath a fence around 30 minutes walk from the village of Pedi, where he had last been spotted. Local police said they believe he had fallen 10 metres down a cliff.
Michael's wife, Claire Bailey Mosley, confirmed the death of her husband this afternoon. One devastating six-word line from his wife's emotional statement said: “He so very nearly made it.”
The full statement read: “I don’t know quite where to begin with this. It’s devastating to have lost Michael, my wonderful, funny, kind and brilliant husband. We had an incredibly lucky life together. We loved each other very much and were so happy together. I am incredibly proud of our children, their resilience and support over the past days.
Dr Michael Mosley shares exercise that can cut cholesterol and blood pressure“My family and I have been hugely comforted by the outpouring of love from people from around the world. It’s clear that Michael meant a huge amount to so many of you. We’re taking comfort in the fact that he so very nearly made it. He did an incredible climb, took the wrong route and collapsed where he couldn’t be easily seen by the extensive search team.
“Michael was an adventurous man, it’s part of what made him so special. We are so grateful to the extraordinary people on Symi who have worked tirelessly to help find him. Some of these people on the island, who hadn’t even heard of Michael, worked from dawn till dusk unasked. We’re also very grateful to the press who have dealt with us with great respect. I feel so lucky to have our children and my amazing friends. Most of all, I feel so lucky to have had this life with Michael. Thank you all.”