The 'heartbroken' family of Greenhithe's Patrick Lamb have spoken of the moment their 'worlds came crashing down' when a month-long search for the 28-year-old resulted in the discovery of a body.
Mr Lamb, who lived in London Road, disappeared during a night out in Maidstone on December 13 - sparking a county-wide search.
The broadcast engineer's family confirmed a body found by two young women in the River Medway at Cuxton Marina on Saturday (January 10) at 3.30pm was that of their beloved son and brother.
Mr Lamb's younger sister, Zoe, 20, paid a moving tribute to her brother of behalf of the Lamb family.
Patrick Lamb
She said: "My heart truly aches as I have to write this but our worlds came crashing down when we finally got our answers for Pat.
"Anyone who had the honour of meeting Patrick would agree that he was the most selfless and kindest person.
"He was always putting people first and making sure everyone around him was happy.
"Whether this was done with words of comfort and support, his humour or just an embracing hug with his smile, Patrick would always be there for you.
"He looked out for his two nephews as an uncle should, and when the youngest fell ill recently he was always at the hospital with presents and treats.
"Patrick was the most amazing son, brother and uncle and we must now cherish his memory and let it live on.
"You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on."
Patrick Lamb's family, Tony Lamb, mum, Sharon, sister, Zoe and brother Paul who appeared in an emotional appeal video
The Lamb family have also thanked all those who helped in the search for Mr Lamb saying: "We are extremely thankful for the support from the public, Kent Search and Rescue, the police and the two young ladies and the dock master who found Patrick and helped keep him safe until he could be recovered."
Hundreds of people have paid tribute to Mr Lamb on Facebook page 'Help Find Patrick Lamb' which has amassed 49,402 'likes' since he disappeared.
Patrick's mum, Sharon (right) during the month-long search for her son
Ang Dawe said: "I'm so sorry, I have been checking in everyday in the hope of good news. Rest in peace fella."
Tabee Evans added: "Rest in peace Pat. Followed the story from day one, was so hoping for a different outcome. Thinking of his family and friends."
Mr Lamb became separated from his friends after having drinks at Bar Chocolate, in Maidstone's Market Buildings.
CCTV cameras picked him up walking down the High Street, near Pudding Lane, and again crossing the road at Fairmeadow, towards the River Medway.
Three dives by specially trained police officers did not find him.
A Kent Police spokesman said the death is not being treated as suspicious.
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