Police have found a body in the search for retired teacher Peter Coshan in rural Northumberland today (September 4) after forensic teams scoured the area this weekend.

Officers investigating the murder of Peter Coshan, 75, have recovered the body of a man near to the village of Kirkwhelpington off the A696 in Northumberland.

He is still to be formally identified but Mr Coshan’s family has been made aware.

UPDATED: Police confirm body found off major North East road is retired teacher Peter Coshan

Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick, of Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts remain with Peter’s family at this incredibly difficult time and we are continuing to provide them with support.

The Northern Echo: Officers were seen searching in the area where a body has been found. Picture: PAOfficers were seen searching in the area where a body has been found. Picture: PA

“I would like to take the opportunity to pass on our thanks to everyone who has come forward with information which has helped our investigation.”

On Saturday (September 3) officers were seen searching the area near to where a body has been found.

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One eyewitness in the area had told The Northern Echo they had seen a heavy police presence, “forensics and a white tent up on the edge of the field near the Capheaton turn off.”

Two men, Paul Black, 63, also known as Joseph Hillary, and Paul McNaughton, 27, have both appeared in court charged with the murder of Mr Coshan.

They appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on August 18 with the pair also charged with attempting to defeat the ends of justice and theft.

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They made no plea when they appeared in private at the court.