Steetley Beach Hatlepool: police who are searching for missing schoolboy Matthew Sherrington find body in Hartlepool

Police in Hartlepool have today confirmed they have found the body of a young male near the Steetley Pier.

Officers had been searching for missing Matthew Sherrington, 14 who was from Hartlepool and had disappeared a week ago after he was seen swimming in the water.

Police have said while no formal identification has taken place on Thursday, July 22nd they confirmed that they were in contact with Matthew’s family and have informed them that body has been located.

Police and Coastguard team were seen in the Steetley and Brus tunnel area this morning.

Police have released a statement saying “Officers searching for missing Matthew Sherrington, aged 14, from Hartlepool, have this morning found the body of a young male near to Steetley Pier in Hartlepool.

“Whilst no formal identification has taken place as yet, officers are in contact with Matthew’s family and have informed them that a body has been located.”

Our thoughts are with Matthew’s family and friends at this difficult time.