POLICE searching for a missing Gateshead mum-of-four have discovered a body in Wylam. 

Sorrelle Bamford (38) was reported missing at 9.55am on Tuesday after last being seen at an address on Chesters Gardens in Crawcrook.

An investigation was launched to trace her as both police and her family were concerned for her welfare, and searches have been taking place in Crawcrook and Wylam over the past two days.

But on Thursday afternoon search teams discovered the body of a woman near to the River Tyne in Wylam.

Police said formal identification has not yet taken place but they do believe the woman is Sorrelle.

Superintendent Peter Bent, who was leading the search on Thursday, said: "We have had a large number of officers deployed across the area since Sorrelle's disappearance.
"There has been a great response from our public appeals and I want to thank everyone who has shared the appeals in the media or on social media.
"Sadly we discovered the body of a woman this afternoon and, although formal identification is yet to take place, we do believe that the woman may be Sorrelle.
"This is awful news for her family and we will continue to support them at this difficult time and we would ask the public to respect their privacy.”

Police said officers will remain close to the location where the body was discovered and continue to carry out enquiries.