Missing Waterlooville man Matt Bone found dead two years after going missing

Matthew Bone, aged 26 when he went missing, disappeared in 2018 while visiting the Malvern Hills in Worcestershire - sparking numerous appeals by family and friends to locate him.

But West Mercia Police today announced his body has now been found. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Matt left Cosham on March 6, 2018, before checking into a Worcestershire hotel - the Stanbrook Abbey - three days later on Friday March 9 before being reported missing on Sunday March 11.

His body was found in the village of Newland, near Malvern, last Friday June 12.

A police statement said: ‘We can confirm that human remains have been found in Newland near Malvern, on Friday (June 12), and sadly have been identified as missing man Matt Bone.’

Det Insp Beth Wells, of West Mercia Police, added: ‘We are sad to report that Matt Bone was found and has now been formally identified.

‘His family have been informed and specially trained officers are supporting them through this tragic time.

‘This is understandably an emotional time for Matt’s family and our sympathies remain with his family and friends.’

She continued: ‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank the public who shared our appeals and helped in our search for Matt over the past two years.’

A Statement from Matt’s family said: ‘Thank you to all who have supported us over the past two years, with special thanks to West Mercia Police and Missing People who have always acted with compassion and kindness throughout our difficult times.

‘Matt may be gone but his light shines on.’

Matt’s family had relentlessly raised awareness of his disappearance with numerous campaigns – the latest one being a 10-mile awareness walkto mark the second anniversary of his disappearance.

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