The search for a 14-year-old schoolboy concluded in tragedy after a body was discovered in Hale.

Luke Howe disappeared from the area of Bankhall Lane at around 6pm yesterday (January 18).

The emergency services searched for the 14-year-old schoolboy overnight and throughout today with a focus on the River Bollin.

A body was discovered which was identified as him and his loved ones were informed.

There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances according to GMP Trafford.

Detective Inspector Rick Lees, of GMP Trafford, said: "Our condolences are with Luke’s loved ones, his friends and family in what is a truly awful time. This is a tragic case of a young teenager who has sadly died in terrible circumstances and our thoughts remain with Luke’s family.

"Luke’s family are being supported by specially trained officers and ask for their privacy to be respected while they grieve their loss. I would like to praise the work that officers and emergency services personnel put in to try and find Luke. This was a complex search in difficult conditions, and their work is appreciated.

"I would also like to thank the members of the public who helped with the search or shared our appeal. Your help in responding to this incident is hugely appreciated."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.