THE search for missing Wellington man Paul Hyam ended last week with the discovery of a body near Wellington Monument.

Mr Hyam, 78, was found by a member of the public near the popular landmark on Tuesday of last week. He had not been seen since Friday, August 26.

CCTV captured him close to Wellington School in the afternoon.

His disappearance was out of character and a massive hunt followed for many days but there were no real clues as to his whereabouts.

Detective Inspector Angela Burtonwood said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this very sad time.

“Secondly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank communities in the Avon and Somerset and Devon areas who helped in sharing our appeals to find Paul.

“We were inundated with support from local people and businesses, and it was hugely appreciated

“This is not being treated as suspicious and we are preparing a report for the coroner.”

Mr Hyam’s disappearance led to scores of police searching the Wellington area and a helicopter was also used. Farmers and landowners were asked to check outbuildings and wooded areas which might be on private property.

Mr Hyam was a keen walker and police believed he may have been on foot or used public transport.

Although the search was focused mainly in the Wellington area, police widened their activities to other parts of Somerset and Devon.

As the weeks rolled by, police renewed their appeal for the public’s help to find the missing man.