Body of missing 66-year-old man found in Ponteland

Stuart, from the Ponteland area, was reported missing to Northumbria Police after he was last seen leaving his home between 1.45pm and 2pm on Tuesday, September 29.

Extensive enquiries were launched to find him.

Shortly before midnight, a body was discovered a short distance from where Stuart was last seen.

Formal identification has yet to take place, but police said the body is believed to be Stuart.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers.

Police said there is no third-party involvement suspected and a report will now be prepared for the coroner.

Inspector Aaron Parsons, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts are firmly with Stuart’s loved ones at this difficult time.

“I’d like to thank the officers involved in the searches, our partner agencies for their assistance and those in the community who shared information with us.

“As is standard practice, a report into Stuart’s death will now be prepared for the coroner.

“We’d like to request the family’s privacy is respected at this time.”