A BODY has been found by police searching for missing Steven Dyson.

Officers were called shortly after 10.30am today to a report that there was a body in the river in Bury, near Railway Street.

At this time there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding this man's death but enquiries are ongoing.

Chief inspector Tom Martin said: "Sadly today officers have found the body of a man in the river, but it is too soon to say if this is the body of Steven Dyson.

"His family are aware and we are offering them specialist support at this incredibly difficult time.

"I would like to thank everyone who came out and helped with the searches, and also the people who shared our appeals and supported the investigation.

"We are still actively looking for Steven and working to identify the man found in the river and the cause of his death."

Steven, aged 22, was last seen at 9am on New Year's Day leaving a party in Ramsbottom.

Police believe Mr Dyson was assaulted before his disappearance and that he could have been seriously injured.

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault on Tuesday and was later released under investigation.