Alex Foulkes was in Italy with a party of students

Alex Foulkes, 17, was on a trekking expedition with classmates from Harrogate Grammar School when he fell into the water on Monday.

His parents have flown out to the Val d'Aosta area where the walking trip was taking place.

But a police spokesman has said hopes of finding Alex alive are fading.

So far helicopter and mountain rescue teams have found only his jacket and one of his shoes.

Alex had arrived in Italy on Saturday for a 14-day trip, organised by Exodus Travel in London, with 11 other students.

The incident happened at Valgrisenche near the French border while the party were walking through picturesque foothills after a day at a mountain refuge.

Alan Reuter, a British consular spokesman said: "The parents are here and we are offering them consular assistance and are looking after them.

"We expect most of the party to fly home on Wednesday but the parents will stay on out in Italy."

In a statement, headteacher Dr Philip Limbert said: "The school is still coming to terms with the news, which has stunned us all.

"We are trying to gather information from Italy and keep everyone informed about the situation.

"We are desperately hoping for good news.

"Our hopes and prayers are with Alex's family."

North Yorkshire Police said the force would be offering help to the school and family, and liaising with police in Italy.