Body is found in hunt for man

7:59am Saturday 3rd May 2008

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A SEARCH for a missing father-oftwo has been called off after a body was found yesterday afternoon.

Anthony Simpson, 47, told his wife Barbara he was going for a walk at about 7pm on Wednesday.

He left his family home in Langley Park, County Durham, and has not been seen since.

Mr Simpson was later in contact, briefly, with the police on his mobile phone, but that conversation was broken off and there was no further response.

Police called a helicopter, used police dogs and fell rescue teams to hunt for him.

The search was stood down after a body was discovered in an area known as Lobes Woods, near Langley Park.

The man's identity has not yet been confirmed but the missing man's family have been informed of the development.

Inspector Fred McAloan said there were no suspicious circumstances arrounding the death. The coroner will be informed and an inquest will be carried out.

Anyone who can assist police with their investigation is asked to call 0845-60-60-365.