FRIENDS and family have been left devastated at the news that missing Kidderminster store manager Matthew Gill has been found dead.

Mr Gill, who worked as a member of the management team at B&Q in Kidderminster, had been missing since October 6.

His disappearance sparked a huge outpouring of support from members of the public who joined in searches and pinned up posters to help find the popular 43-year-old, from Stourbridge.

But, a note posted on the Find Liggy Facebook page on Sunday evening (November 26) confirmed the news all those involved in the search were hoping they would never hear.

West Midlands Police confirmed that a body was found in woodland close to Prestwood Drive, in Stourbridge, on Sunday afternoon. The body has not yet been formally identified - but is believed to be the missing 43-year-old.

A statement on the Find Liggy Facebook page from Annette Woodhouse, Mr Gill’s partner, said: "It is with unbearable sadness that we must let you know that our search for Matt is over.

"Matt was found on the afternoon of Sunday, November 26.

"At this awful time, we would really appreciate you giving Matt’s family and friends time to come to terms with this news and to grieve in private.”

A spokesman from West Midlands Police said: "Officers investigating the disappearance of Matthew Gill from Stourbridge located a body in woodland close to Prestwood Drive in Stourbridge, yesterday afternoon (November 26).

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and although the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of the missing 43-year-old.

"Mr Gill’s family has been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

"A file is now being prepared for the coroner."

People are urged to remove any Find Liggy posters they may have pinned up and to delete any posts they may have shared on social media as the family come to terms with the heartbreaking news.

Mr Gill’s family say they will create a Facebook page in memoriam of Mr Gill for people to express their condolences.

The statement on the Facebook page added: "Matt has inadvertently created something extraordinary at the end of his life. Please always remember how he pulled everyone together, friends and strangers. To honour Matt’s memory please always remain kind and look out for others.

"We will never forget your contribution.”