The body of a man who was reported missing last month has been found by police.

Northumbria Police have confirmed they have found the body of Karl Pyle, in the Newburn area, on the ourskirts of Newcastle.

Mr Pyle, 32, was last seen leaving an address on Whernside Walk in Ryton last month (March 6).

He was reported missing after he did not return to his home in Blucher, Newcastle, and had not been in contact with family and friends.

Police have said formal identification has not yet taken place, but they have informed Karl’s family of this development and are supporting them.

Read more: Karl Pyle missing for three weeks as police re-appeal to public 

Detective Inspector Gillian Glenwright, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is an update which we hoped we would not have to provide.

“Having searched extensively we have now sadly discovered a body in the Newburn area.

“We believe this to be Karl and the formal identification process is now underway.

“We would ask that the privacy of Karl’s family is respected as they come to terms with what has happened. 

“Our thoughts remain firmly with them at this extremely difficult time and we will continue to offer them all the support they need.

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“Thank you to all of the officers who took part in the searches to find Karl, as well as partner agencies and those in the wider community who shared our appeal to locate him.”

Following Mr Pyle's disappearance, extensive enquiries were carried out by officers to find him.

Northumbria Police have said they do not believe there to be any third party involvement and a report will be made for the coroner.