Body found in Fareham in search for missing man Gareth Jones, 39
Gareth Jones, 39, vanished from Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham on May 8 and was last spotted in an alleyway by The Gillies in Fareham on May 12.
Desperate loved ones teamed up with police in a determined campaign to track down Mr Jones.
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Hide AdBut after months of searching, the body of a man, believed to be Mr Jones's, was discovered in ‘undergrowth’ near Old Gosport Road yesterday afternoon, police confirmed.
Announcing the news on Facebook, relative Mary Jones said: ‘It is with such heartache that we wish to let you all know that Gareth Jones body was found yesterday at Fareham creek.
‘We would like to thank all of you for caring and sharing on this page and helping us to bring him home at last, he was a troubled soul but all his friends and family know he had big heart of gold too so please remember him in the good times, he is now at peace and in no more pain.
Hampshire police confirmed the tragic discovery and said that Mr Jones’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
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Hide AdA spokeswoman added: ‘A man’s body was located in undergrowth off Old Gosport Road yesterday afternoon.
‘Formal identification procedures remain ongoing, but the family of a missing Fareham man has been informed.
‘The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.’
Tributes have since been paid on social media to Mr Jones, who was described as a ‘top bloke’ and ‘gentleman’.
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Hide AdOne woman said: ‘I can't stop crying since I've been told the devastating news, it’s heartbreaking.’
Another added: ‘Gaz was a top bloke, always a pleasure to randomly bump into and have a good chat. Kind-hearted and a gentleman, a true treasure. RIP Gaz, I hope you have found peace with yourself.’
Another friend said the news had left her crushed, adding: ‘I’m so sorry to Gareth’s family, my heart and thoughts go out to you all.’
For support, call the Samaritans on 116 123 or see: samaritans.org