Body found, believed to be that of 19 year old missing from West Wittering

Ryan Baldry went missing after getting into trouble in the sea at West Wittering beach on Monday night.

The body of a man, believed to be that of Ryan Baldry who went missing at West Wittering, has been found at Hayling Island.

The 19-year-old was at the beach with friends when he got into trouble in the water on Monday night.

In a statement, Sussex Police said: "We are sad to report that the body of a man was recovered near Hayling Island Lifeboat station at 7.20am this morning (8 September).

"Although formal identification is yet to take place, the body is believed to be that of Ryan Baldry, 19, who went missing after getting into difficulty in the water at West Wittering on Monday (4 September)."

A body, thought to be that of Ryan Baldry, was found near the Hayling Island Lifeboat Station

On Facebook his aunt, Katherine Reed, posted: "It is with deep sadness that i can tell you all that our beautiful Ryan has been found this morning.

"On behalf of Ryan’s mum, dad, brothers and all his family they want to say thank you for all the support and love you have shown and continue to show.

"Our hearts are broken and Ryan will be missed terribly by us all."

She said the family is now taking time to grieve.

"We have all been overwhelmed at all the kindness you have shown and I can’t put into words how we are feeling or what this has meant. We love you Ryan"

Lifeboat crews and a police helicopter were called out - but the search was stood down on Tuesday. Credit: ITV Meridian

His family are receiving support from specialist officers.

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances and it will now be a matter for the coroner.

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