TRIBUTES have poured in after a body was found in the water during the search for a missing man.

Hampshire police searching for missing Michael Stratton have said they have found a body in the water in Gosport.

The family of the 27-year-old has been informed.

In a tweet the police said: "Body has been found in water in Gosport. Family of missing Michael Stratton (27) informed. ID to be completed. Thanks for sharing appeal."

Now people have taken to social media to express their remorse at the tragedy.

Alix Kapongo wrote: "Such bad news! Lennox and I where there last night sow alot of police though nothing of it.

"Please for god sake kids stop jumping off the bridge. Prayers go out to his family at this very sad time."

Jodyne Jurd said: "Love and thoughts to all of Beavers family at such a tragic sad time.

"Regardless off how or what he was a lovely lad who was well liked by so many and will be very sadly missed. R.I.P Beaver.xxx"

Becci Douglas posted: "Such sad news. We all shared the story in hope. My thoughts are with family/friends. Gone so very young. Rip xxx"

Mr Stratton was reported missing after it was believed he jumped from a bridge into the water, causing police and coastguard launched a hunt for him.

The incident happened at Jackie Spencer bridge in Gosport at 2pm on Saturday.

A statement from Hampshire Police at the time when Mr Stratton went missing said: "We're concerned for his welfare as he hasn't been seen since around 2pm yesterday (Saturday, July 23), when he was in Clayhall Road,Gosport.

"It's believed he was jumping off the Jackie Spencer bridge, known locally as the black bridge, into the water.

"The Coastguard was called, but Michael hasn't been located.

"We'd like to hear from any witnesses, or anyone who has seen Michael since 2pm or anyone with any information.

"Please call 101."