The search for 49-year-old Joanne Jones, who went missing a week ago in Pontypridd, has come to a tragic end after her body was found on Saturday evening in St Gwynno Forest. Joanne, last seen on CCTV smiling and waving as she ventured into the forest alone, was the subject of an extensive search involving local authorities, volunteers, and mountain rescue teams.
Joanne was last captured on CCTV near Graigwen Road at around 10:05 a.m. on Monday, wearing a waterproof jacket, boots, and carrying a rucksack. She was also sighted near the Brynfynnon Hotel at 12:45 p.m., her last confirmed appearance before heading toward the expansive St Gwynno Forest—a rugged 2,644-hectare area popular with hikers and cyclists.
Extensive Search Efforts
The South Wales Police, assisted by Brecon Mountain Rescue and dedicated local volunteers, launched an intensive search operation utilizing helicopters, scent dogs, drones, and horseback patrols. Volunteers gathered at Ynysybwl Rugby Club on Friday for a briefing, combing fields, woods, and urban areas in search of Joanne. Tragically, the search concluded with the discovery of her body late Saturday.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Family
Since news of her passing, tributes have flooded social media as friends and family remember Joanne’s warm personality and ever-present smile.
Helena Worth shared, “Devastated. JoJo, you were such a beautiful person inside and out. You always had a smile for everyone and nothing was ever too much trouble.”
Clare Hodges wrote, “Heartbroken to see this update. So much love to Nick, Helen, and the rest of her family and friends. RIP Jo.”
Another friend, Catherine Marin, expressed gratitude to all those involved in the search, saying, “We have lost the kindest soul. Jo would have been so shocked that so many cared so much. Light those pumpkins up and think of this lady full of light and kindness.”
A Community in Mourning
The discovery has left the local community in mourning as residents reflect on Joanne’s impact on those around her. Phillip Evans, a local volunteer, remarked on the strong community effort in the search, saying, “If we can search these areas, it helps the police to use their assets to search other areas.”
Joanne’s family expressed their appreciation for the support and dedication of the search teams and local residents who joined in the efforts to find her. They are requesting privacy at this difficult time as they grieve the loss of a beloved family member.
