Tragedy as police find body of missing man last seen leaving pub

Police have confirmed a body has been tragically found in the search for a missing man in Marple.

Christopher Barlow, 31, was last seen shortly after 1am on Sunday, June 4th after leaving the Royal Oak pub in Mellor, Stockport.

He was last sighted turning left to walk along Brabyns Brow from Town Street.

Police officers and specialist teams searched a specific area beside the Peak Forest and remained at the scene after the tragic discovery on Tuesday, June 6th.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the body as being Christopher, and his family have been informed. A report is currently being prepared for the Coroner’s Office.

Detective Superintendent Helen Critchley, of GMP’s Stockport district, said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with Chris’s family and friends at this very distressing time.   

“I would also like to thank the local community for their support with the search and the wider public for their assistance in sharing our appeal.”

According to The Manchester Evening News, on Monday evening (June 5th) the water search and marine unit, as well as a number of police vehicles and detectives were at the scene.

A large section of the canal was closed off to boats the next day as the search for Christopher continued. 

Canal towpaths were also taped off as divers went into the water and officers searched nearby woodland.