A BODY has been found in a river as part of a search for a missing man.

Anthony Keating, 43, from Gateshead, has been missing since Sunday afternoon after last being seen near Derwent Walk in Rowlands Gill.

Shortly after 11am on Monday morning police received a report of a body in the River Derwent at Derwent Park, near Gibside.

The Northern Echo:

The River Derwent

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "The body was recovered from the water and, although formal identification is yet to take place, it is believed to be Anthony.

"Specially-trained officers are supporting Anthony’s family at this difficult time and police are asking that their privacy is respected.

"There is not believed to be any third party involvement and a report will be prepared for the coroner in due course."