The search for a missing man who went missing just before Christmas has been halted after a body was found near Hockley. 

Marc Jones, 44, from Marlow in Buckinghamshire, disappeared during a visit to family in Hockley on December 23. 

Essex Police have now confirmed that the search has been halted after the location of the body of a man in Hockley Woods. 

A spokesman said: “Although formal identification is yet to be carried out, Marc’s family have been informed of the development and are being supported by officers from Thames Valley Police.” 

“Alongside colleagues in Thames Valley Police (TVP), we worked to pursue reasonable lines of enquiry to locate Marc, including following up sightings which were reported to us and to TVP colleagues. 

“We will provide an update on our investigation as soon as we practically can. 

“At this time, our thoughts are very much with Marc’s family and those close to him.” 

At 8.45am on Saturday, Marc went on a walk alone towards Guide Woods from Woodside Road at the bottom of Bullwood Approach. 

His disappearance was described as “completely out of character” and sparked a search for him in the area, as well as tireless attempts by family and friends to locate him.