A man missing from his Bicester home for three weeks has been found dead.

Mark Stirrat, 20, walked out of his home in Willow Drive on the Southwold estate at about 10am on March 16.

He had been in a confused state, suffered from depression and was on medication.

His body was found on Saturday morning by a man walking in woodland near Middleton Stoney, west of Bicester.

Mark's parents Andy and Lorraine and volunteers had joined specialist police search teams and put up posters in the surrounding area. Mr Stirrat said: "For the past three weeks our family clung to the belief that Mark would eventually be found safe and well.

"This news comes as a tremendous blow to us all and a tragic waste of a young life."

Mr Stirrat praised everyone involved in the search for his son, who worked for a computer imaging company on the Launton Industrial Estate.

He said: "The police were marvellous and kept us informed at every stage.

"There were neighbours, workmates and other volunteers who willingly gave up their time.

"The local papers, radio and television were very supportive and alerted the public to watch out for him."

Det Sgt Bob Gray, of Bicester CID, said: "This is a tragic conclusion to the search for Mark.

"He was a vulnerable young man and from the start extensive resources were deployed to try and trace him. His family are devastated."

Police are waiting for the results of a post mortem, but the death is not being treated as suspicious.

An inquest is due to be opened and adjourned this week until later this year.