THE multitude of volunteers and businesses who assisted in the search for Rosie Johnson have been thanked for their efforts by Isle of Wight Search and Rescue (WightSAR).

The voluntary organisation, who aided the search for Rosie, have also sent their condolences to those who knew her.

Rosie, a 22-year-old Glasgow University zoology graduate, was last seen at the Little Canada activity centre in Wootton on Sunday, June 23.

Her body was found in Wootton on Friday, July 2.

A letter from WightSAR letter reads:

On behalf of Isle of Wight Search and Rescue, I would like to convey sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Rosie Johnson.

I would also like to pass on our deepest gratitude to the many Island businesses, large and small, who assisted our 25 volunteers who took part in the search for Rosie.

These businesses included PGL, Lakeside Hotel, Woodside Coastal Retreat, Woodside Bay, Tesco Ryde, Brannon’s Tea Room of Wootton, Christopher Jeffrey and Drew's Brews mobile coffee van who all provided free sustenance.

Island Roads provided safety sunglasses which were invaluable in the often hot and bright search conditions. Island Roads was also one of the many employers who without question, gave our volunteers time off to allow them to join in the search operation.

The support of businesses and the public is vital in helping Isle of Wight Search and Rescue undertake its work. Without this steadfast support we would simply be unable to mobilise and assist the other emergency services in times of need.

Though the search for Rosie ended in tragedy, we would nevertheless wish to publicly recognise the support of everyone who contributed to the efforts to locate her.

Yours Sincerely,

Dean Terrett

Founder and Chairman - Isle of Wight Search and Rescue