A BODY has been found near a canal in the search for a man who has been missing since Christmastime.

Officers from GMP’s Tactical Aid Unit discovered human remains at around 10:48am on Saturday, March 4, following a further search of the area around the Bridgwater Canal in Boothstown, Salford.

The remains have not been formally identified but Peter’s next of kin has been informed and specialist officers are continuing to support the family and their loved ones.

The death is currently being treated as unexplained and enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances.

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Mr Baglin last seen around Christmastime

Mr Baglin was last seen on the evening of December 28, with his wife Michelle reporting him missing when he did not return home from a walk that took him down the towpath of the Bridgewater Canal.

The 55-year-old was last spotted on CCTV cameras in a petrol station on the East Lancashire Road.

His belongings, which included a hat, phone and headphones, were found there the following morning.

Since then, GMP and underwater divers have carried out extensive searches of the canal, between the Moorings and Astley Point, and mountain rescue teams combed the adjoining fields and woodland areas.

Statement from GMP

Following the discovery, Detective Inspector Michael Sharples of the GMP Salford District said: "Though we are not currently in a position to confirm this is Peter, our thoughts remain with his wife Michelle and his loved ones.

"We understand that the last two months have been extremely difficult for them and this continues to be a distressing time for all of Peter’s loved ones.

"Search teams, made up of GMP personnel and colleagues from partner agencies - such as the National Police Air Service, North West Underwater Search Team and Mountain Rescue – have worked extensively to try and find Peter.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has assisted to date, and also to confirm that our enquiries will not stop until we have found the necessary answers for Peter’s loved ones, for our investigation and for coronial proceedings."