Body of man, 48, found

The body of a man missing since Sunday has been found in the River Severn in Shrewsbury.

Christopher Batho, from Shrewsbury, was found in the water near the Old Swan pub at the Montford Bridge at about 5.15pm yesterday.

Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the death and Mr Batho's family have been informed.

The 48-year-old was last seen on Sunday evening in the Old Swan pub before heading in the direction of the Montford Bridge.

Sergeant Paul Winfer, for Shrewsbury Police, said some personal belongings had been found by the bridge and officers then conducted a search with dog handlers.

He said: "He was found following a police search of the river by a dog handler.

"It was one of the dogs that located the body. He was partially submerged in the water.

"The fire brigade attended to assist in removing the body from the river.

"It's suspected that he may have gone in the river Sunday night."

The coroner has been informed and an inquest will be opened at a later date.