Body found in River North Esk near Dalkeith

A BODY has been recovered from the River North Esk near Dalkeith, police have confirmed.

The family of Thomas Davidson has been informed of the discovery. Picture: Contributed

The grim discovery was made around 6.30pm yesterday by a passing member of the public.

A formal identification has yet to take place but the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Police said they had informed the family of 73-year-old Thomas Davidson, who has been the subject of a major search operation in the area since he was reported missing earlier this week.

The pensioner was last seen on Esk Place at around 9pm on Tuesday, and was heading in the direction of Lugton Brae.

Inspector Stuart Aitchison ,said: “Sadly a body has been recovered from the River North Esk.

“A formal identification is yet to take place, however, we have been in contact with the family of Thomas Davidson and made them aware of this development.

“Our inquiries are at an early stage however we will continue to offer the family support as and when they need it.”