THE family of teenager Gaia Pope-Sutherland who went missing in Purbeck and was found dead 11 days later have released a guide to help others when their loved ones go missing.

Gaia, 19, disappeared in Swanage on November 7, 2017. Despite a major search across the local area, she was found dead in bushes by a cliff-top near Swanage on November 18, 2017.

Gaia’s Guide has been released on what is third anniversary since the teenager was found.

The family said: “Designed to help loved ones when someone goes missing, Gaia’s Guide provides step-by-step guidance on how we did it.”

Gaia’s Twin Sister Maya Pope-Sutherland said: “When Gaia went missing I didn’t know what to do, none of us knew what to do. We knew with public backing and attention the police would have to do something but I didn’t know how to get the word out.

“If it wasn’t for Marienna and all the volunteers I think we’d still be searching. We want to offer the guide so families know what to do. When someone you love disappears it’s hard to even think straight. Hopefully Gaia’s Guide will help.”

Gaia’s Guide has been back by national charity Missing People. Remi Arnold, family support manager at Missing People, said: “It’s heart warming to see something good come from such a tragic event. There is something very powerful about family members using their own experiences to help and support others.

“We’re pleased to include this brilliant resource on our website. Gaia’s family should feel proud of this great work; it’s a wonderful way to honour her memory.”

A full inquest into Gaia's death had been scheduled to take place in January next year. But it is now set to take place in May 2021 due to delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as on the request of relatives because of the volume of evidence that needs to be reviewed.

It is expected to hear from more than 150 witnesses over eight weeks.

The initial opening of the inquest, which took place in February 2018, heard Miss Pope-Sutherland died of hypothermia.