Megan Roberts: North Yorkshire Police confirm body is that of missing student

Megan's parents have paid tribute to their 'intelligent, talented and beautiful daughter'

Megan Roberts, 20, has not been seen for more than a week since she disappeared during a night out with friends (PA)

North Yorkshire Police have confirmed a body found in in the River Ouse near York is that of missing student Megan Roberts.

York St John University student Megan Roberts, from Wetherby, west Yorkshire, disappeared during a night out with friends in the city on 23 January.

It had been feared that the 20-year-old had fallen into the River Ouse after she became separated from her friends. Megan was last seen on CCTV on the corner of Rougier Street and Lendal Bridge in York at 2.20am.

Her body was spotted by a member of the public at 3.30pm yesterday near a pub at Acaster Malbis, a village almost five miles south of York, police said.

Megan’s mother Jackie Roberts today paid tribute to her “intelligent, talented and beautiful daughter"

In a statement, she said: “We would like to thank the police, fire service, and the public that have been involved in the search for Megan. We would also like to thank everyone who has offered support and comfort during this painful time.

"[Her] kindness and sense of humour will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.”

Her father also thanked those involved in the search for his daughter.

“”Megan was a wonderful, kind and loving daughter who will be missed by many”, he said.

Superintendent Phil Cain, Safer Neighbourhood Commander for York, said: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with Megan's family at this extremely difficult and very sad time.

”Her family are receiving support from specially trained officers as they come to terms with what has happened.

“This tragedy has touched many people including Megan's friends, fellow students at York St John University and the people of York and we extend our sympathies to them at this time.”