A missing man has tragically been found dead in a river near Bolton town centre.

Craig Hodkinson, 33, was last seen on Churchgate in Bolton at around 5am earlier this week on Wednesday September 13.

Police officers have now confirmed that at around 4.40pm on the afternoon of Sunday September 17 they found a body in the River Croal confirmed to be that of Mr Hodkinson.

Detective Inspector Lee Gridley said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Hodkinson’s loved ones at this very difficult time, we would also like to thank members of the public who helped with our investigation by sharing our online appeals.”

The Bolton News: Police were called to the River CroalPolice were called to the River Croal (Image: Public)

Formal identification has now taken place and it has been confirmed to be the body of Mr Hodkinson.

His next of kin have now been informed.

The area around the River Croal had been reported to have been cordoned off which appeared to include Water Street, which turns off Brown Street, along the way to the River Croal.

Members of the public reported seeing the scene still taped off after 8pm that evening.

The Bolton News: Police were called on Sunday eveningPolice were called on Sunday evening (Image: Public)

Water Street is found on the opposite side of the river from Bolton town centre.

Police were seen taking the cordon down at around 8.50pm on Sunday evening.