Body confirmed as missing man Martyn Richardson

Martyn Richardson had been missing since 24 August, after leaving a family party

A body found during a search for a missing man has been confirmed as that of Martyn Richardson, who disappeared in August.

Mr Richardson, 27, was last seen leaving a family birthday party in Bocking, near Braintree, Essex, on 24 August.

Essex Police was called on 16 November to an area of the waterway in Bocking after a body was discovered by a group of volunteers.

Insp Phil Jackson said: "I only hope this confirmation serves to provide some form of closure for Martyn’s loved ones."

Insp Jackson recognised the "tireless involvement" of volunteers and groups in the search for Mr Richardson, led by the 27-year-old’s friends and family.

"I know all too well this is the news no-one involved in this search, particularly the family and friends of Martyn, and the wider community in Bocking, wanted to hear," he said.

A file is being prepared for the coroner, Essex Police added.