Police have confirmed that the body of a man struck by a train in the North East nearly two weeks ago is that of a missing Skipton man.

Matthew John Thornton, 45, had been missing from his home in Petyt Grove, for nearly two weeks when his disappearance was reported by a friend last Sunday.

Officers were concerned for his welfare because he had been suffering a long-term illness.

Northumbria Police have now confirmed that it was Mr Thornton whose body was struck by a train near Gateshead on January 13.