A BODY has been found in the search for a missing man, police have confirmed.

James Spence, 88, who was known to friends as Jim, was reported missing from his home in Wallingford in the early hours of Thursday morning after going for a walk.

Police believed he may have caught a bus or walked to Reading or Oxford, and appealed for members of the public to help in the search for him.

Sadly, the body of a man was found near a field in Wallingford this afternoon (Friday). Formal identification is yet to take place, but police believe it to be Mr Spence.

Inspector Nicola Douglas, based at Abingdon police station, said: "Officers have been carrying out extensive search activity to attempt to locate James Spence. Sadly a man's body has now been found by those searching for Mr Spence. His next of kin have been informed and are being offered support.

"I would like to thank everyone who assisted us in our missing person investigation. Members of the community have helped us in our enquiries and I would like to pass on my appreciation for their support. It is with great sadness I have to inform everyone of this tragic outcome."

The death is being treated as unexplained, but is not believed to be suspicious.