Galashiels man Joop Sparkes missing in Prague after ‘jumping off boat for a swim’

A Scottish man is missing in Prague after “jumping off a party boat for a swim”.

Joop Sparkes, from Galashiels, reportedly went overboard during a organized party boat trip with friends on the Vltava River at around 1am on Sunday, April 27.

His girlfriend, Charley Maben, and members of his family have flown out to the Czech capital in an effort to try and locate him, but have yet to find any answers.

Charley has since launched a desperate plea on social media, saying: “My boyfriend Joop went missing early hours of Sunday, April 27. Around 12:30/1am. He was on board the boat that leaves from the President Hotel Prague.”

“On way back to the port he alleged to have jumped off to go for a swim and not been seen since. Police are aware.

“If anyone has any information or has seen him please call 158 get in touch.

“Family really worried. He possibly had swam back to shore and no one has seen him so he could be anywhere.

“He was with a couple of friends but at the time Joop jumped into the water he was upstairs and his friends were down at the bar. As soon as they realised they called for help.

“The police have called all hospitals and are doing it daily but still no sign.”

A GoFundMe page has been launched to help fund the family’s search efforts.

It reads: “Joop is a cherished son, brother, boyfriend, and uncle. He works in the construction industry and enjoys outdoor adventures, staying fit, and spending time with loved ones.

“We cannot bear the thought of leaving Prague without Joop. Your support means the world to us as we tirelessly search for him. Please keep Joop in your thoughts and prayers.

“Your donation will help us to stay in Prague as long as we can to investigate and work with local authorities to find out what happened to him.

“We would also like to thank everyone for their messages of support. We are unable to respond to them all at this time as our efforts and attention remain focused on finding Joop.”

You can donate to the fundraiser here.

An FCDO Spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has gone missing in Czech Republic and are in contact with the local authorities”.