AFTER conducting a search of the area, police have found a body, believed to be that of missing South Ockendon man Paul Bowen.

Mr Bowen, 36, was reported missing shortly before 7.50pm on Sunday 4 September, prompting the serach and appeal for any knowledge of his whereabouts.

This morning police made the following announcement: "We have suspended the search for Paul Bowen who is missing from South Ockendon.

"Officers have located the body of a man.

"Formal identification is yet to take place, but our search has been suspended.

"Paul's family have been informed and are being supported. "