Body found in search for missing North-east man Paul Smurthwaite

A body has been discovered in the search for missing North-east man.

Although formal identification is yet to take place, Durham Constabulary believe the body to be that of the missing 53-year-old Paul Smurthwaite. Mr Smurthwaite's family have been informed and the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Police are preparing a report for the coroner. A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: "We are sorry to announce that a body has been found in the search for missing Durham man, Paul. Formal identification has yet to take place, but the family of the 53-year-old have been informed.

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"Our thoughts are with them all at this difficult time. Paul's family would like to thank members of the public for their kindness during the search – the countless messages of support have provided them great comfort during what has been, and continues to be, an extremely difficult time for them all", reports Chronicle Live.

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