Body found in search for missing soldier

Alex was captured on CCTV walking through the Tidworth branch of Tesco, an hour before he went missing

A body has been found in the search for a missing soldier who disappeared from an Army base.

Alex Cairnie, 30, a British Army sergeant from Perham Down, was last seen leaving the camp in Tidworth, Wiltshire, at about 12:00 BST on Sunday.

An urgent search had been under way to find him, but Wiltshire Police confirmed a body had been discovered near Warren Hill at 18:00 BST on Tuesday.

While formal identification has yet to take place, it is believed to be Mr Cairnie and his next of kin have been informed, police added.

Police believe the body belongs to Mr Cairnie, though formal identification is yet to take place

There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

Police officers, British Army colleagues and Wiltshire Search and Rescue had been involved in the extensive search.

DI Mark Kent said: "Our thoughts are very much with the family and loved ones of Alex at this extremely difficult time.

"I would like to thank all those involved in the search efforts to locate him."