SWANAGE is a town in mourning this week following the tragic death of Gaia Pope.

Hundreds of residents took part in the hunt for Gaia after the teenager was last seen alive at an address in the close-knit Victorian seaside town.

At the weekend, eleven days after her disappearance, police confirmed a body had been discovered close to an isolated coastal path.

Yesterday dozens of floral tributes had been placed at the town's King Alfred Memorial, many of them from people who helped in the search for the 19-year-old.

One card read: "We are a community in shock, such a tragic and sad loss.

"You will always be remembered and heartfelt thoughts are with your family at such a devastating time."

Another, signed by Sue and Emma, simply said: "Rest in Peace Gaia, with love."

Another card accompanying flowers read: "Our hopes now replaced with sadness. May you forever rest in peace Gaia."

Photographs of Gaia had also been posted on the seafront memorial, alongside messages of condolence weighted down with pebbles from the beach.

Some town residents and holidaymakers stopped briefly at the memorial to pay their respects.

Peter Stevens, told the Daily Echo: "Even those who didn't take part in the search followed the events unfolding on the news.

"It seemed there was real hope, it is all so very sad to have ended the way it has."

Another resident, too distraught to be named, said: "She was so young, her whole life was in front of her.

"We often use the word tragedy when it isn't really appropriate, but tragedy is the only word I can think of to describe what has happened here.

"Now I hope someone will be able to shed some light on what has gone on, the family and the town need answers."

At Swanage's St Mary's Church, where prayers were said for the friends and family of Gaia on Sunday evening, residents were invited to light a candle in memory of the teen.

Members of the public also shared their condolences with Gaia's family via the Find Gaia Facebook group which attracted more than 11,800 members.