THE village of Greenhead has been rocked after the search for the missing pensioner Walter Hutton ended in tragedy.

Walter’s sister-in-law, Mary Hutton paid tribute to him, and said: “He was a quiet, friendly person, well liked in the village.

“All his neighbours thought the world of him, he would help anyone out and they would help him.”

The 74-year-old was reported missing on Saturday after he was last seen near his home address in the village.

A frantic search and rescue operation got under way, with a description of Walter issued to the public.

Police said the operation involved “specialist resources from other areas”, and saw a number of services alongside police, including members of the Northumberland National Park and North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Teams.

Police also called in assistance from a swift water rescue team from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, two search dog teams from Teesdale & Weardale Search & Mountain Rescue Team (TWSMRT) and Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team.

The incident involved 20 members of the various teams for eight hours on Saturday, and 18 members on Sunday for four hours. Members of the public were also involved in the search.

Despite their efforts, officers confirmed on 4.30pm that a body had been found near to Walter’s address, and that his family had been informed.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “Police searching for missing Northumberland man, Walter Hutton, sadly located a body on Sunday.

“His next of kin have been informed and there is believed to be no suspicious circumstances.

“A report has been prepared for the coroner.

“Janice Hutton, Chief Superintendent for Northern Command, would like to thank partner agencies and members of the public who have helped with our search.

“Our thoughts are with Walter’s family at this difficult time.”