A BODY, believed to be that of a grandfather missing from home for almost a month, has been found.

Police have today confirmed that a body discovered in woodland at Bishop Auckland last night is thought to be that of Brian I’anson.

The 59-year-old, from Ferryhill, had not been seen since Thursday, September 14 when he was spotted walking along the A167.

Just this week his son Brian, from the Consett area, issued a heartfelt appeal for help to trace him.

He described his father as a quiet man who liked to socialise in clubs and pubs in the Bishop Auckland and Ferryhill areas and said, though he was known to enjoy walking long distances, his disappearance was out of character.

A spokeswoman for Durham police said: “We’re sorry to report a body has been found in the search for missing Ferryhill man, Brian I’anson.

“The body was found in a wooded area in the Bracks Farm area of Bishop Auckland at around 5pm last night.

“Formal identification has yet to take place, however it is believed to be the body of Mr I’anson. His family have been informed.”

She said that the death is not being treated as suspicious and that a file is being prepared for the coroner.