Tragic discovery in search for Richard Parker who disappeared over two months ago

Police searching for a missing man from Wrea Green have made a tragic discovery, it has been confirmed this morning (May 16).

An 'exhaustive' operation had been underway following the disappearance of Richard Parker, who went out on his bike more than two months ago. The 62-year-old was last seen in the Brooklands area of Wrea Green at around 2.20pm on Monday, March 4

Chief Inspector Andy Ainsworth described the disappearance as "out of character". It led to a "huge search operation" involving both land and water-based searches and dozens of house-to-house enquiries.

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Today, Lancashire Constabulary has confirmed they received a report of a body in the sea off the Lytham Coast on May 5. This has now been formally identified as Richard and his loved ones have been informed.

According to the force, the death is not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesperson said: "We have some very sad news to bring you today. You may remember that we’ve asked for your help looking for Richard Parker, who was missing from the Wrea Green area.

"On Sunday, May 5, we received a report of a body in the sea, off Lytham coast. Sadly, formal identification has now taken place, and we can confirm that that body was Richard.

"His loved ones have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly upsetting time. Richard’s death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be passed to the coroner in due course.

"Thank you to all who shared the appeals to find Richard."