A BODY has been found in the search for a missing man.

Hugh Cox, 61, was reported missing earlier this month, with the latest police helicopter search carried out along the Dorset coastline on Thursday.

The "hugely respected" consultant left his home address in White Lackington, Dorchester on Tuesday, June 20 in his blue Volkswagen Tiguan Estate.

But he failed to turn up at Poole Hospital, where he worked as an ear, nose and throat consultant, and a head and neck surgeon.

Dorset Police confirmed this afternoon they were working with colleagues in Hampshire and the coroner to identify the body of a man discovered off the coast of the Isle of Wight yesterday.

Although formal identification has not taken place, Mr Cox's family has been informed of the discovery and are being supported by specially-trained officers.

The death is not being treated as suspicious.