Authorities have recovered the physique of a "much-loved" firefighter who went lacking as he tried to swim the English Channel.

Iain Hughes, 42, a crew supervisor at Wednesbury fireplace station within the West Midlands, set off from the Kent coast with a assist vessel on June 20 this yr certain for France.

But he went lacking as he entered French waters, sparking a frenzied search backed by worldwide authorities.

French and Belgian officers extensively combed the realm however failed to find any hint of the dad-of-two and finally referred to as off the operation.

West Midlands Fire Service introduced at this time that the physique of a swimmer found off the Belgian coast was formally recognized as Mr Hughes.

The fireplace service issued a joint assertion this afternoon alongside the late swimmer's household.

Family members spoke of how their lives "were shattered" when he went lacking.

The assertion added: "He was our world. The news that his body had been found was unbearable.

"It nonetheless is. We miss him greater than phrases can ever say. We are pleased with Iain for therefore many causes."

"He put his coronary heart and soul into coaching for the swim, however that was Iain - decided to assist and assist others."

Mr Hughes was an active charity fundraiser who aimed to raise £1,000 for each mile of his swim across the channel.

He had planned to donate the £21,000 to three charities; the British Heart Foundation, The Fire Fighters Charity and the Midlands Air Ambulance.

His disappearance led to a surge in support, and the fundraiser has now received £56,000 in donations.

The family statement added: "It is gorgeous to see how a lot cash has been raised for his three charities, but in addition heartbreaking that he won't ever know the full. Thank you to everybody who has donated and who continues to be elevating cash.

"We also want to send our thanks and love to everyone who has been there for us these past few weeks.

"The picture we're releasing sums up the Iain we liked.

"We will not be giving media interviews and ask that our privacy be respected. Thank you."