POLICE searching for a 14-year-old boy who vanished while swimming a week ago have today found a body.
Matthew Sherrington was last seen "playing in the sea" near Hartlepool when he disappeared.
A major search was launched with the coastguard and RNLI lifeboats all involved in the operation.
But tragically police confirmed today a body had been discovered near where Matthew vanished at Steetley Pier.
Cleveland Police said: "Officers searching for missing Matthew Sherrington, 14, from Hartlepool have this morning found the body of a young male near to Steetley Pier in Hartlepool.
"Whilst no formal ID has taken place, officers have informed Matthew’s family that a body has been located."
Police and Coastguard vehicles could be seen near the pier today, which was shielded by a green sheet.
Matthew was last seen playing in water with pals at around 6.15pm on July 15.
An overnight search of the water was carried out but was scaled back after a 13-hour hunt last week.
The Coastguard said at the time they were no longer actively looking for the teenager as "survivability has been deemed no longer viable."
The tragedy comes after the UK's drowning death toll hit 17 as Brits flock to water during the heatwave.
A boy of 13 and at least six other teenagers are among those who have died.
Authorities have now issued warnings about the dangers of swimming to cool off during the heatwave as temperatures soar above 32C.
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