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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Miriam Burrell

Body of missing London father Robert Dyer found in Jamaica

The body of Lewisham father Robert Dyer has been found in Jamaica after he disappeared while going for a hike during a visit to the country.

Mr Dyer's body was recovered on Thursday morning in the Ballards Valley area of St Elizabeth during a search and rescue operation led by the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The 60-year-old personal trainer reportedly became lost after going for a hike on Sunday, November 5, during a visit to Jamaica to see family members.

No "foul play" is suspected in his death, local police said.

Residents and the Jamaica Fire Brigade and defence force also assisted in the search operation.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Jamaica and are in contact with the local authorities."

Robert Dyer (Lewis Dyer / Facebook)

Speaking to the BBC prior to his death, Mr Dyer's son Lewis Dyer said local residents involved in the search were "heroes".

"They have given up their time to search and walk up and down in tough terrain. They don't even know my dad, they're just amazing people just trying to help," he said.

His wife Clara Beasley told BBC London: "Overnight on Sunday he called his brother to say he had lost his way."

She said he called his wife Anne on Monday when he sounded "disoriented" and was "severely dehydrated".

Mr Dyer had arrived in Jamaica on Friday and was reportedly staying with his brother, according to Caribbean National Weekly.

Tributes have begun flowing for the London man.

Mr Dyer co founded MaceMasters, a mace exercise training company that taught "ancient warrior techniques to strengthen body and mind".

On its website MaceMasters said: "Rob started training in boxing and martial arts at the age of 14 and has pursued a life of health and fitness ever since. After over 18 years working in the City, he changed career to helping others improve their health and wellbeing through exercise.

"Rob qualified as a personal trainer in 1998 and has since qualified in strength training, speed coaching, nutrition and mace training. In October 2000 he launched the first ever UK fitness class for overweight children, featuring in the national press for his unique approach to overcoming the barriers to fitness faced by many.

"Rob specialises in core and functional training and has developed a wide range of training methods to help clients utilise their core strength to the fullest."

A friend of Mr Dyer, Nik Brown, wrote on Facebook: "My beautiful day was saddened enormously to hear of the tragic passing of my friend Robert Dyer.

"Robert was indeed a Mace Master, but he was much more than that, he was a master gentleman and friend. He will be greatly missed."

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