Friends and family of a missing teen whose body was found in the River Tees gathered for a candle-lit vigil in his memory last night.

Lewis Penfold-Roche’s body was recovered from the Tees two weeks ago on Monday (March 11).

The 18-year-old had been missing since January 28 when he was seen at about 6pm.

The Northern Echo: Candles were lit in memory of Lewis.Candles were lit in memory of Lewis. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

On Sunday (March 24) evening his loved ones gathered in John Whitehead Park in his hometown of Billingham.

Family, friends and members of the public gathered for a fireworks display and balloon release.

The Northern Echo:

Those attending were encouraged to light candle in his memory while photos of Lewis were placed on display in the park.

The Northern Echo: Balloons were released at Billingham's John Whitehead Park.Balloons were released at Billingham's John Whitehead Park. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

The Northern Echo: Fireworks were set off.Fireworks were set off. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

His disappearance sparked a major missing persons search with family, friends and professionals out looking for the teen.

His family last week thanked locals who helped in the search.

The Northern Echo: Lewis Penfold-Roche.Lewis Penfold-Roche. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

In a statement online they said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank absolutely everyone who helped us over the last six weeks to find Lewis.

The Northern Echo: Crowds gathered to mourn the loss of Lewis.Crowds gathered to mourn the loss of Lewis. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

“We really appreciate every single one of you for your help.

“Unfortunately, we got the outcome none of us ever dreamed of. As a family, we would now ask that you don't forget about him.

The Northern Echo: Fireworks lit the skies over Billingham.Fireworks lit the skies over Billingham. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

The Northern Echo: Balloons were released.Balloons were released. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

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“While we take time to process this information and mourn the loss of our Lewis, please respect our privacy.

The Northern Echo: Family and friends gathered to pay their respects.Family and friends gathered to pay their respects. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)

A body was retrieved from the water near the Tees Barrage on March 11, and police later confirmed it to be that of Lewis.

His death is not being treated as suspicious, police said.

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo: Fireworks were set off in his memory.Fireworks were set off in his memory. (Image: PYRO MEDIA)