Body found confirmed to be Pat McCormick

Police have confirmed a body found in a lake in the Ballygowan area was that of missing man Pat McCormick.

The 55-year-old father of four had not been seen since 30 May. Police believe he was murdered.

Mr McCormick's body was discovered on Tuesday, following searches which resulted from information passed on to the PSNI.

Lead investigator DCI Pete Montgomery said his thoughts are with his family.

He read a statement from Pat's brother Harry, which said: "The last six weeks have been devastating for his parents, brothers, wife and his beautiful four children, however we are grateful to now have Pat home for our final goodbyes and burial.

"A massive thank you to everyone for their support and prayers, especially the public of Comber.

"As a family in mourning we would now ask for privacy. We know that the PSNI are doing everything they can for us and Pat to get justice."

A further statement from Pat's wife Alison said: "I would like to thank the Comber community for all their help and information that they've given police to help recover Pat.

"Myself and his four children are truly thankful."

Detectives continued to appeal for information as part of their investigation into the murder of Pat McCormick.

He was last seen alive in Comber, Co Down, on the evening of Thursday 30 May.