The body of a German Jewish backpacker has been found in a river in Ecuador more than a week after he went missing while on a hike.

Friends and family of Jonathan Simon, from Munich, launched an internet campaign to help with the search. More than 4,300 people joined a Facebook group, while alerts were posted on travel forums such as Trip Advisor.

The 21-year-old was travelling with a friend when he disappeared along the trail of Ecuador's Pastaza River on August 6.

The pair had split up and arranged to meet later at a specific spot, but Mr Simon never arrived.

It is thought he fell off a footbridge while attempting to cross the river.

Israeli rescue workers flew to Ecuador to help with search efforts.

On Saturday evening, a spokesman for the family wrote on the Facebook group: "Unfortunately we have to announce that Jonathan´s dead body was found tonight.

"Jonny would be astonished to see how many people - family, friends and many strangers - have come together and put their personal matters aside for this cause.

"You have been in the minds of thousands the last week and you will never be forgotten."