A BODY found in a Scottish river is believed to be that of missing former Bicester Advertiser reporter Clive Dennier.

Mr Dennier, who lived in Inverness, failed to turn up for work at the Strathspey and Badenoch Herald in March.

He had talked to colleagues about going hill walking the weekend he went missing. At the time snow was up to two-and-a-half metres deep.

Extensive searches took place after his disappearance, but he was not found.

On Friday a body was spotted in the river near Loch Hourn by a local farmer.

Editor of the Strathspey and Badenoch Herald Gavin Musgrove said official identification had yet to take place, but it was believed to be Mr Dennier.

Mr Musgrove said: “Our thoughts are with Clive’s family and his many good friends at this difficult time.

“He was just the most fantastic and lovable person. We have not only lost a very talented and experienced reporter but also our best friend.

“His disappearance left a massive hole in our lives and not a single day goes by without us thinking about him.

“But at least the recovery of his body will bring some closure and there will be a chance to say farewell.”

Mr Dennier, originally from Ormskirk, Lancashire, is believed to have a sister living in Didcot.