A body found near an Oxford primary school last month has been confirmed as missing Kidlington man Derek Brant. 

The 63-year-old, who worked at St Anne's College, was reported missing in July.

Thames Valley Police said a man's body was found in a stream near St Mary and St John School, Meadow Lane, on the afternoon of November 30. DNA examination yesterday confirmed the man was Mr Brant.

His death his being treated as unexplained, but not suspicious.

Supt Emma Garside said: “This is a tragic case and very sadly, we are now able to confirm that the man who was located in Oxford is Derek.

“He was reported missing to the force in July and efforts have been ongoing to locate him ever since.

“Derek’s next of kin have been made aware and are being offered support by local officers at this time.

“Derek’s death is being treated as unexplained, but not suspicious, and a file has been prepared for the coroner." 

She added: “I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Derek’s family and friends, and would ask that their privacy is respected at what will be a very difficult time for them.

“I would also like to thank the public and the media for sharing all of our appeals in the search for Derek.”

Mr Brant was last seen at around 3pm on July 24 in South Parade, Summertown. 

At the time, police said he had been wearing a navy/black coloured polo shirt, black cargo trousers and a fluorescent jacket.

The Kidlington resident was said to be a keen walker and also helped on litter picks in the neighbourhood.

In September, Mr Brant’s niece Sadie Wilkinson, 30, published CCTV video showing him walking in Summertown – in the hope that it would help jog people’s memories.

She told the Oxford Mail: “It’s really sad. We thought someone would walk by him and he’d just got lost because this has never happened before."

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