THE body of a 29-year-old man from Bacup has been discovered by fishermen in the River Irwell at Ramsbottom.

Derek Butler, who lived alone at New Line, Bacup, was reported missing by his family on Saturday and was found the following day.

Fishermen discovered his body snagged to a tree in the swollen river, close to Nuttall Park. It is believed Mr Butler, who suffered from depression, fell into the river at Bacup and was swept along by the current.

Police said the cause of death was almost certainly drowning and an inquest is expected to be opened at the coroner's office in Rochdale tomorrow.

Geoff Cave, coroner's officer, said: "As a result of police inquiries Mr Butler's death is not being treated as suspicious."