Major search for two men last seen going to the sea near Haven holiday park in North Wales

A body was discovered on a beach in Aberystwyth, Wales, following a search for two missing men last seen near a holiday park in Pwllheli. The discovery came after a six-day search involving coastguards, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), and local authorities. The deceased was identified as Connor Parfitt, one of the two men whose disappearance sparked the operation. His family and the coroner have been notified, according to North Wales Police. The search began on July 26 when officers were called to the scene after a body was found on the beach. The two missing individuals, known only as Simon and Connor, were last spotted near a beach off Hafan-Y-Mor Holiday Park in Pwllheli on Tuesday evening, July 21. They were believed to be heading toward the coast with inflatable kayaks. Concerns for their safety were raised shortly after they were last seen. Police confirmed that the search efforts included coordination with coastguards and the RNLI, which deployed resources to scour the area. Witnesses were encouraged to come forward with any information regarding the pair’s whereabouts. A spokesperson for North Wales Police stated that the men were “believed to be heading to the beach with inflatable kayaks” around 6.30 p.m. on July 21. The police appealed for public assistance through a live webchat and by phone using reference number O118860. Chief Inspector Ian Roberts, who led the initial search efforts, emphasized the importance of community involvement. He noted that officers were working alongside HM Coastguard and other partners to locate the missing men. The search expanded over several days, with teams combing coastal areas and nearby waterways. Despite these efforts, only one body was recovered, leaving the fate of the second man unknown. Simon Wilson, the other missing individual, remains unlocated. His family continues to receive support from the police, who have maintained regular communication with them throughout the investigation. Officers have continued to urge anyone with relevant information to contact them using the reference number O120829. The ongoing search for Simon has remained a priority, with authorities emphasizing that the situation remains critical. North Wales Police issued statements expressing deep concern for the families of both missing men. Chief Inspector Stephen Pawson, who later addressed the public following the discovery of the body, acknowledged the emotional toll on the families and the dedicated efforts of all involved in the search. He thanked partner agencies, volunteers, and members of the public for their contributions to the operation. The police reiterated their commitment to finding Simon and providing updates to his family. The incident has drawn attention from local media and residents, many of whom have expressed sympathy for the families affected. Community members have shared information and offered assistance, highlighting the role of public engagement in such cases. While the recovery of Connor Parfitt marks a tragic milestone, the search for Simon Wilson continues. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of further developments and remain vigilant in their efforts to locate him. The case underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in locating individuals in remote or hazardous environments.