Police have confirmed that a body found in rural Northumberland on Sunday (September 4) is that of retired-teacher Peter Coshan.

Officers investigating the murder of the 75 year-old have confirmed that the body they recovered near the village of Kirkwhelpington off the A696 in Northumberland on Sunday has been identified as Dr Coshan.

Coshan disappeared from the Seafield Road area of Edinburgh on August 11 before midnight and was reported missing the following day.

Read more: Tragedy as man, 43, dies in crash on B6309 near Stocksfield, Northumberland

On Saturday (September 3) officers were seen searching the area in Northumberland near to where his body was found.

The Northern Echo: The scene at Kirkwhelpington on Sunday September 4. Picture: NNPThe scene at Kirkwhelpington on Sunday September 4. Picture: NNP (Image: NNP)

His family has been made aware and specialist officers are providing them with support.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick, of Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts remain with Peter’s family at this incredibly difficult time.

"I would again like to thank everyone who has come forward with information which has helped our investigation."

To get more stories direct to your email basket go here

One eyewitness in the Kirkwhelpington area on Saturday told The Northern Echo they had seen a heavy police presence, “forensics and a white tent up on the edge of the field near the Capheaton turn off.”

The Northern Echo: Picture: NNPPicture: NNP (Image: North News)

Two men, Paul Black, 63, also known as Joseph Hillary, and Paul McNaughton, 27, have previously been arrested and appeared in court charged with the murder of Dr Coshan.

They appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on August 18 with the pair also charged with attempting to defeat the ends of justice and theft.

They made no plea when they appeared in private at the court.

Read next:

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here