Elizabeth Ashbee

Police have confirmed that the body found in Caernarvon Bay yesterday is that of the missing kayaker Elizabeth Ashbee.

The 53-year-old, of Shrewsbury, Shropshire, became separated from four companions in bad weather about 2.30pm on Sunday while heading through rocks near Rhosneigr.

Her fellow paddlers managed to scramble up cliffs to safety and a three-day search by Coastguard, RNLI lifeboat crews, two helicopters from RAF Valley and the North Wales Police helicopter, aided by members of the Shrewsbury Canoe Club ended yesterday when Ms Ashbee’s body was found at 5.28pm on Tuesday.

A statement on the club’s website said: “Elizabeth was a real character within the club and will be missed by many.

“We would like to express our sincerest thanks to the rescue services for all their time and efforts.

“Our thoughts and sympathy are with the family and those involved in this tragic occurrence.”