Michael Mosley’s widow Dr Clare Bailey Mosley has released a statement following the news that her husband’s body has been found several days after his disappearance.

The television personality, 67, went missing on June 5 on the Greek island of Symi, where he left his partner of 37 years on St Nicholas Beach to embark on a solo walk.

This occurred at around 1.30pm local time (11.30am British time).

However, after he failed to return to their accommodation later that evening, the authorities were alerted.

Across the next four days, rescue teams involving helicopters, drones, boats and dogs were deployed.

He was eventually found on June 9 by a Greek cameraman who was traveling by boat with the island’s mayor, to try and take videos of the rescue team in action.

She said: “I don’t know quite where to begin with this.

“It’s devastating to have lost Michael, my wonderful, funny, kind and brilliant husband.

“We had an incredibly lucky life together.

"We loved each other very much and were so happy together.

“I am incredibly proud of our children, their resilience and support over the past days.

“My family and I have been hugely comforted by the outpouring of love from people from around the world.

"It’s clear that Michael meant a huge amount to so many of you.

“We’re taking comfort in the fact that he so very nearly made it. He did an incredible climb, took the wrong route and collapsed where he couldn’t be easily seen by the extensive search team.

“Michael was an adventurous man, it’s part of what made him so special.

“We are so grateful to the extraordinary people on Symi who have worked tirelessly to help find him. Some of these people on the island, who hadn’t even heard of Michael, worked from dawn till dusk unasked.

“We’re also very grateful to the press who have dealt with us with great respect.

“I feel so lucky to have our children and my amazing friends. Most of all, I feel so lucky to have had this life with Michael.

“Thank you all.”