A body found in a Colchester pond earlier this week has been identified as Christopher Scales, police have confirmed.

Officers were called to the Distillery Pond area of Colchester on Monday, July 25 shortly after 5pm.

According to Essex Police, specialist teams recovered the body of a man.

A forensic post-mortem examination was carried out and the man has been identified as Christopher Scales.

Widespread searches had been carried out for the 41-year-old who had been missing since February.

Following the discovery, his family have been informed and are being supported by Essex Police.

An Essex Police spokesman added: "The thoughts of everyone at Essex Police are today with Christopher's family and friends."

A fundraiser has been set up to help the family raise £4,000 for the dad-of-two's funeral.

A statement on the online fundraiser reads: "As most of you are aware Chris went missing almost six months ago without a trace, unfortunately, yesterday the worst possible outcome was realised.

"Chris was found and is very sadly no longer with us.

"As you can imagine these past six months have been a rollercoaster of emotions and incredibly distressing for Chris' family – wife Emma, son Harry and daughter Lily.

"Emma has had to adapt to raising their children alone, supporting them in trying to come to terms with their dad's sudden disappearance whilst dealing with her own struggles."

It continues: "Chris deserves the very best of send-offs, he deserves to finally rest in peace and I hope together we can make this happen.

"Chris, may you rest in eternal peace."

More details of the fundraiser can be found here.

If you need help and support, call Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust’s First Response helpline 0808 196 3494 or the Samaritans on 116 123. Both services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also download the Stay Alive app on Apple & Android.