Tributes paid to 'fearless' British tourist, 31, who died while on 'trip of a lifetime' in Asia
Tributes have been paid to a 'fearless' British tourist who vanished in south-east Asia on Christmas Day before being found dead this week.
By PATRICK HARRINGTON
Published: 15:05 GMT, 10 January 2026 | Updated: 16:17 GMT, 10 January 2026
Tributes have been paid to a 'fearless' British tourist whose body was found this week in south-east Asia after he vanished on Christmas Day.
Mark Counsell, 31, from Pontypool in south Wales, set off on the 'trip of a lifetime' around Thailand and Malaysia over the festive period.
His last contact with family was a video call to wish them a happy Christmas on December 25.
A missing persons appeal was initiated by Gwent Police in the New Year after Mark's communication with loved ones abruptly stopped, with advise he could be in Thailand or the Kuala Lumpur area of Malaysia.
Malaysian police found a body on Wednesday and it has been confirmed as Mark, known as 'Melon' to his friends.
The death is not being treated as suspicious.
Now, his heartbroken family is raising money to return his body after he set off without insurance.
His sister Georgia said: 'It is with a broken heart we share the tragic loss of my brother, Mark Counsell who passed away while travelling in Kuala Lumpur.
Mark Counsell, 31, from Pontypool in south Wales, died while travelling around south-east Asia
Mark was remembered by his family as fearless, funny and someone who dreamed big
'As we navigate through this incredibly difficult time, we are facing a financial burden we never imagined - one that is hard to bear in addition to our grief.
'Melon was a one of a kind and can never be replaced. He was well known and was much loved by his friends and family for his wild characteristics and his funny well quipped jokes.
'He always had the ability to leave a lasting impression on everyone he met as if it was his goal.
'He lived for the moment, was fearless and full of adventure. Mark had big dreams, no safety net but had a knack for making things happen on his own terms.
'Unfortunately, my brother did not have insurance or any possessions that could help us with the costs associated with bringing his body back home to us.
'The overwhelming love and support that has been shown by all that knew Mark, has brought the family comfort.
'Therefore, we are asking for your help for the expenses involved in returning him and honouring his memory. To get him back home is beyond what we can manage on our own, so we are reaching out to ask for your help.'
Before the family confirmed his death, Gwent Police said: 'We received a report that a body of a man had been found by Malaysian Police on Wednesday 7 January.