Tributes have poured in following the tragic news that the body of teenager Caleb Wilkinson was found last night.

A search involving the police helicopter and RNLI was launched for Caleb, 16, after he was reported missing on Monday night (October 17).

Today Cleveland Police confirmed that his body was sadly found last night.

Sky News journalist Will Walters, from Teesside, has known Caleb since he was a toddler as he is best friends with the teenager’s sibling.

Will said there were ‘no words’ to describe his emotions following the youngster's tragic death.

The Northern Echo: Sky News journalist Will Walters pictured centre with a young Caleb Wilkinson, right Picture: Will WaltersSky News journalist Will Walters pictured centre with a young Caleb Wilkinson, right Picture: Will Walters (Image: Will Walters)

He said: "Caleb was such a bright, funny, amazing boy with his whole life ahead of him.

“Thank you to everyone who shared last night’s appeal.

“There are no words.”

Read more: Caleb Wilkinson: Body found in search of Teesside 16-year-old

Caleb was a member of the Cleveland Cobras and Badminton Club and they have suspended all matches for the rest of the month out of respect to him and his family.

The club said it was ‘a very raw and emotional situation at the moment’ and posted on facebook: “Some very sad and devastating news - Caleb Wilkinson, one of our long term, committed and highly valued members has passed away.

The Northern Echo: Caleb WilkinsonCaleb Wilkinson (Image: Cleveland Police)

“An excellent young man in all respects.

“Our thoughts are with his family.

“As a mark of respect, all badminton at Huntcliff tonight is cancelled.”

The club went on to post that all Cobras badminton sections and matches are suspended until November 2.

Redcar MP Jacob Young described the news of Caleb's death as 'heartbreaking' and posted on Twitter that his thoughts are with all who knew the teenager.

In a statement, Cleveland Police confirmed the news of Caleb's death and said the circumstances surrounding it are not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesman said: "Police can confirm that sadly a body was found last night (Tuesday, October 18) in the Saltburn area in the search for missing 16-year-old Caleb Wilkinson.  

"Officers have informed Caleb’s family and our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time. 
"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the Coroner."

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