Body found in search for missing South Shields man Stephen Robertson

A Northumbria Police statement said: “Earlier today (Thursday), police recovered a body of a man which is currently believed to be that of Stephen Robertson, 63, who went missing yesterday.

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

“A formal identification process will follow and enquiries are being carried out to establish the circumstances surrounding the death.

“At this stage, there is not believed to be any third party involvement.

“Police would like to thank everyone who helped with the search for Stephen, and we would like to ask that his family’s privacy is respected at this difficult time.”