The body of a missing man from Handforth has tragically been found in woodland in Rawtenstall, around 30 miles away from his home.
Police are now attempting to trace the last steps of David Hoyle, 70, who was initially reported missing from his address in Windermere Road, near Wilmslow, at around 1.30am on Tuesday (March 7).
His body was later recovered the same day in an area of woodland off Hurst Lane, in Rawtenstall, at around 3.48pm.
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Officers investigating the incident have said David's death is currently being treated as unexplained, but that there is no evidence at this stage to suggest third party involvement.
Lancashire Constabulary said Mr Hoyle had been wearing a blue Jacket, grey coloured jeans and brown shoes when he was reported missing and are now conducting an investigation to trace his movements before his death.
DS Sophie Swift, from Burnley CID, said: “First and foremost my thoughts are with David’s loved ones at this extremely distressing time. We are working to establish the circumstances which led to his death, piece together his final movements and establish how he got from Handforth to Rawtenstall.
“I would ask anybody who saw David yesterday or anyone with information which would assist our enquiries to contact police as soon as possible.”
Police added that Mr Hoyle’s family are being kept up to date with developments.
Anyone with any information is being urged to contact forcecontrolroom@lancashire.police.uk or call 101, quoting log 889 of March 7, 2023.
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