Family’s tribute to their ‘amazing daughter’ brooke
THE family of a young rugby player whose body was recovered from a river after a night out have paid tribute to her, saying “life will never be the same”.
Brooke Morris, 22, from Trelewis, was reported missing after getting a lift home from a night out in Merthyr Tydfil on October 12.
Her body was found four days later in the River Taff following a large scale search involving many volunteers from the community.
In a tribute released yesterday through South Wales Police, her family said she had left an “amazing legacy”.
They said: “Our family life has been shattered by the passing of our amazing daughter Brooke. No words can express the sadness, grief and loss we currently feel.
“At this hugely difficult time we have gained strength from the support of our wonderful family and friends, members of South Wales Police, especially Fay and Victoria, and health professionals at the University of Wales Hospital, Cardiff.
“Although Brooke is no longer with us, she has left an amazing legacy. Brooke has succeeded in bringing together so many people in our locality and we are deeply touched by the community spirit we have witnessed.
“Life without Brooke will never be the same, but the happy memories we all share is of some comfort at this distressing time.”
The tribute, from Karen, Gary, Sam and Jack Morris, also said they wanted to thank everyone who was involved in the search for Brooke.
They said: “To all involved in the search for Brooke, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. It would be remiss of us not to mention the support of Nelson RFC, The Nelson Belles, Treharris RFC and the South Beacons Mountain Rescue Team.
“We are indebted to local businesses who have made such generous donations. We also thank the 2 Wish Upon a Star charity for their support.”
Nelson RFC held a minute’s silence ahead of its game with Pontypool RFC on Saturday.
Writing on Facebook, the club said it wanted to play in memory of Brooke.
It added: “It has been suggested that the games should have been cancelled as a mark of respect.
“Brooke loved nothing more than rugby so we will pay our respects before the game.”
Police previously said they believe Ms Morris, who played rugby for
Nelson RFC, never entered her house in Bontnewydd Terrace after being dropped nearby by a car on her way home from a night out.
She was believed to have walked towards a bridge which goes over the river near her home, prompting a huge search operation in and around local waterways and woods.
Police said an investigation into Ms Morris’ death was continuing.