POLICE have arrested five men on suspicion of the murder of missing Darlington man, Alan Youngson.

The men, from the Branksome, Cockerton and North Road areas were arrested this morning (Friday, October 12) as forensic teams continued several searches throughout the town.

The men are aged between 28 and 38 and are being held in custody at police stations across County Durham.

Mr Youngson, 25, has not been seen since August 15 - however, police have uncovered a man’s body in woodland in the Branksome area of Darlington, close to the A1(M) on Monday after being alerted by a member of the public.

Although no formal identification has yet been made, police believe the body to be that of Mr Youngson.

It is understood that Mr Youngson moved to Darlington around five years ago from Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, and previously lived in Jedburgh Drive.

He is also thought to have two young daughters.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Weir, who is leading the investigation, said today: “Although we are still working to formally identify the body we found on Monday evening we are pursuing this investigation on the assumption that it is Alan and his family have been informed of this.

“My investigation team are continuing to work hard in pursuing a number of lines of enquiry aimed at bringing those responsible for Alan’s death to justice.

“Forensic examinations and searches of the area where the body was found continue and my officers will be out in the local area carrying out house to house enquiries and offering reassurance to members of the community.

“Something like this happening in any community is shocking and upsetting but I would like to take this opportunity to reassure people that we believe this to be an isolated incident and that people should not be worried or concerned.

“I would urge anyone with any information that may help us to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information can call Darlington police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.