Body found in search for missing pensioner

Cheshire Police have confirmed that a body has been found in the search for missing pensioner Tony Brooke, an 82-year-old man with dementia. A spokeswoman for the constabulary said: "Officers searching for a missing pensioner have sadly found a body. While formal ID has yet to take place, it is thought to be Tony. Next of kin have been informed."

Mr Brooke, from Haslington, was last seen on Bradley Hall Lane on the outskirts of Crewe on the afternoon of August 31, heading in the general direction of Haslington, according to the force.

A number of officers had been deployed in the search for Mr Brooke, and residents had been urged to check their outbuildings in case he had taken shelter. Earlier in the search, a police spokesperson said: "A number of officers are currently out searching for Tony and we're urging residents in the local area to check their sheds and outbuildings in case he has taken shelter."

The force had previously said it was becoming "increasingly concerned" for Mr Brooke, who officers said "can often become confused" due to his dementia. He was described as white, around 5ft 7in tall, with grey hair, and was last seen wearing a beige fleece, grey trousers, and black trainers with white soles.

Anyone with information was asked to call 101 and quote IML 2408199.