THE body of a man who went missing in Worcestershire two years ago has been found, according to his family.

The family of Matthew Bone, who was last seen in Callow End in 2018, announced the sad news via their Facebook page that Matthew's body had been found a short distance from Stanbrook Abbey, the hotel where he was last seen.

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."

Originally from Portsmouth, Matthew travelled to Worcestershire and checked into Stanbrook Abbey Hotel on Friday, March 9 in 2018.

He had been studying for his PhD in environmental science at the time of his disappearance.

His family made repeated appeals for information over the last two years, and held regular fundraising events for The Missing Persons Charity, which supports the families of missing people.

West Mercia Police announced the discovery, saying: "We are sad to report that human remains have been found in Newland, Malvern, on Friday, June12 , and have been identified as missing man Matt Bone. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this emotional time."

Detective Inspector Beth Wells said: "We are sad to report that Matt Bone was found on Friday, June 12, 2020 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.

"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."