THE BODY of missing Joanne Jones who was last seen on CCTV smiling has been found.
Police have confirmed the identity of the 49-year-old hiker who was found on Saturday evening after she went missing from her home in Pontypridd on Monday.
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Joanne’s family expressed their gratitude to officers and local residents for their efforts throughout the past week.
Cops previously released images taken on Graigwen Road at around 10.05am.
Joanne was seen wearing a waterproof jacket, boots and was carrying a rucksack.
In one of the images, the missing hiker smiled and waved at a passing motorist.
Police also said she was spotted near the Brynfynnon Hotel at around 12.45pm.
It is the last confirmed sighting of the hiker before she headed towards St Gwynno Forest.
A huge search was launched involving helicopters, police dogs, drones and mountain rescue experts.
The 2,644-hectare St Gwynno Forest is a rugged area, home to a handful of sheep farms, is a popular beauty spot for walkers and cyclists.
The legendary 18th-century runner Guto Nyth Bran, is buried in the St Gwynno church in the village where a statue to him stands outside.
On Friday, a team of volunteers met at nearby Ynysybwl Rugby Club where they were briefed by police on joining in the search.
They scoured fields, woods, and urban areas in the village.
Scent dogs and police on horseback also joined the search.
Phillip Evans, 70, said at the time he wanted to help the “community-minded” effort.
He said: “If we can search these areas it helps the police to use their assets to search other areas.”
Hours later the body was found.
TRIBUTES
Friends and family have taken to social media to pay tribute.
Helena Worth said: “Devastated. I had the pleasure of working with and knowing for many years.
“JoJo, you were such a beautiful person inside and out.
“You always had a smile for everyone and nothing was ever too much trouble. Sending lots of love to Nick and the rest of the family.”
Clare Hodges said: “Heartbroken to see this update.
“So much love to Nick, Helen and the rest of her family and friends, and huge thanks to those working so hard to search for her. RIP Jo.”
Jayne Lissa Hobby said: “Aw no, Jo was one of the loveliest people I had the pleasure of knowing and working with, rest in peace beautiful lady.
“Condolences to Nic and Jo’s family.”
Annie-Marie Thomas said: “Such sad news. Jo was the nicest person you could meet, her lovely smile would light up any room. Sleep tight. Condolences to all her family.”
Catherine Marin said: “To all who searched for Jo, supported her family and shared the updates far and wide, thank you.
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“We have lost the kindest soul, she would have been so shocked that so many care so much.
“I will miss my beautiful friend so very much. Jo adored Halloween so please, light those pumpkins up and think of this lady full of light and kindness.”
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