'Devastated' family pay tribute after Hampshire diplomat confirmed dead

Richard Morris’s body was found in Alice Holt Forest on Monday August 31.

The 52-year-old, from the Bentley area, was reported missing on Wednesday May 6.

Paying tribute to him today, his family said: ‘From childhood European holidays via a US university scholarship to Ambassador to Nepal, Richard loved to travel.

‘Described as funny, kind and smart by his diplomatic colleagues, he worked for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office with professionalism and integrity for nearly 30 years.

‘His empathy and kindness to those around him earned him respect wherever he went, evidenced by the messages of love, friendship and support we have received from all over the world.

‘Richard was always a runner, cheerfully describing himself as "more of an enthusiastic weekend trail runner than podium finisher".’

Richard had completed five marathons on four continents, most recently in Nepal, where he raised money for Changing Faces - the UK charity of which he was a trustee.

The family added: ‘Above all else, Richard was a family man. A loving and loyal husband, father, son and brother. He showed us the world but he was our world and we are devastated by his loss.

‘We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the organisations and individuals who have supported us over the past few months.’

Hampshire Constabulary thanked those who helped in the search for Richard.

Mr Morris was the ambassador to Nepal between 2015 and November 2019 and accompanied the Duke of Sussex during his tour of the country in 2016.

Before that he was head of the Pacific department in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and held senior diplomatic posts including in Australia and Mexico.

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