Tribute to a son "who will be sorely missed"

Wednesday 17 September 2014

The heartbroken family of the young Jerseyman murdered in Thailand this week have paid tribute to a talented, bright and conscientious son who will be sorely missed.

David Miller (24) was found dead on a beach on the diving resort of Koh Tao on Monday. Three Burmese immigrants who work in the island are apparently being questioned in relation to his death, and the death of 25-year-old Hannah Witheridge from the UK.

David’s family have released a photograph and a statement about him, and have revealed that he was due to leave Thailand today to head off for a six-week work placement with a mining company in Australia, having just completed a degree in Civil and Structural Engineering at Leeds University.

They say that he was on course for a first class degree and planned to return to his studies for a Masters course.

The statement said: “David was an artist by temperament, so talented. He had a creative eye that he carried with him through life and in his degree.

“He was hard-working, bright and conscientious, with everything to look forward to. David was very giving to his family and friends and we all adored him. He will be sorely, sorely missed.”

Hannah's family have also paid a public tribute to their daughter.

They said: “Hannah was a beautiful, intelligent, loving young woman who poured joy into the lives of all who knew her. She was selfless and caring and made each and every day that little bit more wonderful.

"Our family are utterly devastated and shocked by what has happened to our beautiful Hannah. To lose her in the way that we have is beyond comprehension. We are heartbroken and no words can possibly describe how we feel. As such, we would be extremely grateful to be left in peace while we come to terms with our loss.”

Both families have asked for the media to respect their privacy.