A body has been found by police searching for six-year-old Lucas Dobson who fell into the River Stour at Sandwich, Kent Police has said.

The force said the body has not been formally identified but Lucas’ family have been told.

The six-year-old went missing on Saturday afternoon after he fell into the River Stour in Sandwich, Kent, while on a fishing trip with his family.

Inquiries are continuing but the death is not being treated as suspicious, the Press Association reports. 

Chief Inspector Mark Weller of Kent Police said: “This is a deeply tragic and upsetting incident for all concerned, and Lucas’ family are understandably devastated.

“We were inundated with offers of assistance from members of the public, who turned out in large numbers to help search for Lucas. I know his family are very grateful and touched by the support provided, and I too would like to offer my own personal thanks.

“I would also like to recognise the efforts of our partners from Kent Fire and Rescue Service, HM Coastguard, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and others who assisted in the search for Lucas.”