Man's body found in Lancashire woodlands

Police found the body in a wooded area in Scarisbrick in the early hours of this morning.

He has since been identified as Lee Sims, 45, who was reported missing yesterday (Monday, February 22).

A public appeal was launched to help find Mr Sims, from Scarisbrick, who was last seen at around 4pm in the Hall Road area of the Lancashire village.

Following an urgent search, Lancashire Police officers discovered his body in a nearby area of woodland.

The force said his death is not believed to be suspicious.

A police spokesman said: "Officers searching for a missing man have sadly found a body.

"In the early hours of this morning (Tuesday, February 23), Lee Sims, 45, was sadly found in a wooded area in Scarisbrick.

"His death is not believed to be suspicious and his family have been notified. A file will be passed to HM Coroner.

"We put out an appeal yesterday evening to ask for people’s help to find Mr Sims and so we would like to thank anyone who called in, shared or commented on our post.

"Our thoughts are with Mr Sims’ loved ones."