First picture of ‘devoted couple’ who died on waterfall walk

A ‘devoted couple’ who died at a waterfall walk in the Brecon Beacons National Park have been pictured for the first time.

Rachael Patching, 33, and Helen Patching, 52, who are from Kent in England, were reported missing on Wednesday 4 January while on holiday in Wales.

The pair were at Ystradfellte Falls in Powys, known as the Four Waterfalls Walk, a popular route with tourists.

After a search effort involving police, the fire service and mountain rescue, their bodies were recovered from the water in the following days.

heir families have issued a joint statement paying tribute to the couple and thanking those who tried to go to their aid.

It reads: ‘We are devastated to have suffered such an immeasurable loss following the news of Rachael and Helen’s passing at just 33 and 52.

‘They were such a devoted, selfless, and loving couple having had an immensely positive impact on all those they met.

‘Their love for animals and dedication to caring for them so lovingly over the years made them a truly admirable credit to themselves and society.

‘Their endless laughter will be forever remembered by all who had the honour to know them.

‘There are no words that can express enough how highly they were both thought of by family members, friends, and colleagues.’

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

Got a story? Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. Or you can submit your videos and pictures here.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

Follow Metro.co.uk on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news updates. You can now also get Metro.co.uk articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here.