THE family of a man who disappeared days before Christmas say they have been “truly touched” by the kindness of strangers after a body was found in south Essex.

Marc Jones, 44, of Buckinghamshire, went missing during a visit to Hockley on December 23, having walked alone towards Guide Woods from Woodside Road at the bottom of Bullwood Approach at about 8.45am.

After Essex Police conducted an aerial search of Hockley Woods a public appeal was issued four days later, with officers at Thames Valley Police describing Marc's sudden disappearance as "out of character".

The search for Marc, however, has now been halted, Essex Police has confirmed, after a body was found in Hockley Woods on December 30.

A spokesman for the police 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.

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

Marc's family have now reacted to the latest developing, thanking everyone who has helped them during such difficult times.

In a statement they said: "It was not the news we had truly expected.

"We will forever be truly touched by the kindness of strangers, the tenacity of friends and the great outpouring of love for Marc and the family during this time.

"We appreciate all your love and support. As a family, we now need time to grieve privately."

The family has also set up an email address to which people can send any messages of condolence and support.

"As you can imagine, that is overwhelming to receive on an individual basis," the statement continued.

"If you would like to message the family, please use this email address for the time being and we can all then access this in our time."

Since the discovery of the body a Essex Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

According to the force, the referral was made to seek to identify whether there were early opportunities or lines of enquiry which were not explored.

Those who would like to share their condolences with Marc's family can contact marcjonescondolences@megacentrerayleigh.co.uk