A body found at the side of a canal has been confirmed to be that of a missing 70-year-old.

Police launched an appeal to find Norman Buchanan who was last seen on Brunswick Street in Nelson last Wednesday.

A police spokesperson said: “Sadly, we received a call on Friday (27th September) to a report a body had been seen on the side of the canal near Slipper Hill at Foulridge.

“Patrols attended and the body has now been confirmed as Norman Buchanan.”

The Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue team said they were called to assist following reports of the body being found near Colne.

The mountain rescue team said: “At approximately 10am, the team was called out by Lancashire Police to reports of a body in the canal at Foulridge.

“The team with water team members responded and were met by a crew from Lancashire Fire and Rescue and Lancashire Police on the scene.

“We are sad to say the Police have confirmed the body was the missing 70-year-old, Norman Buchanan, from Nelson.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this difficult time.”