THE FAMILY of a 23-year-old man from Monmouth who died last week, have paid tribute to their "deeply-loved" son, who was "the gentlest soul".

Jacob Picken's family said his loss is "indescribable".

But they want his death not to have been in vain, and are "keen that this should lead to positive change in the way that we all approach mental health issues".

After being reported missing last Wednesday, February 5, Jacob Picken's body was found on Friday afternoon, February 7, in the Kymin area of Monmouth.

"Our thanks to Gwent Police and emergency services in all they have done in the past few days.

"Jacob only ever knew how to express love and kindness, our hearts are broken for the loss of the gentlest soul.

"Jacob was all we could ever ask for in a son and we are so grateful to him for giving us the most wonderful 23 years.

"Our great sorrow that we have lost our eldest son is tempered by the thought that he will guide us through our future days.

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“We wish to thank so many well-wishers for their overwhelming kindness. Thank you for being such wonderful friends to us in our time of great need.

"The community in the town, Haberdashers' Monmouth Schools, Monmouth Comprehensive School, Osbaston School and Monmouth Rugby Club are all rallying around.

"We need you all to look after each other, with your friends and families wherever you are right now.

“We want Jacob's passing not to have been in vain and we are keen that this should lead to positive change in the way that we all approach mental health issues.

"For that reason, we want to open honest dialogue regarding what we all need to do to help our children in the future. Jacob has given us this opportunity and we intend to take it.

"With all the love that Jacob consistently showed for his friends and family.”

In a social media post at the weekend, Jacob's father Rob Picken asked for privacy for his family, and added: "Know that we are reaching out to you all in our hearts and drawing strength from knowing that Jacob was deeply loved by so many.

“We want Jacob's passing not to have been in vain and we are keen that this should lead to positive change in the way that we all approach mental health issues.

"For that reason, we want to open honest dialogue regarding what we all need to do to help our children in the future.

"Jacob has given us this opportunity and we intend to take it.
With all the love that Jacob consistently showed for his friends and family.”

Gwent Police have confirmed that they are not treating the death as suspicious, and said in a statement issued at the weekend: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Jacob at this difficult time."