POLICE searching for the missing former Cheshire footballer James Dean have found a body.

The 35-year-old former Northwich Victoria striker was last seen in the Lancashire town of Oswaldtwistle on Wednesday night but now, Lancashire Police have confirmed a body was found on Sunday afternoon.

"While the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Mr Dean," Lancashire Police said in a statement.

"His family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a post-morten examination will take place in due course."

Dean played for Vics during the 2006-07 season and also played for the likes of Halifax Town, Chorley, Bamber Bridge and Clitheroe among others.

A Justgiving page has been set up in order to support Mr Dean's family, with the aim of raising £10,000.

> You can donate by clicking here