Body found in search for schoolboy, 14, who vanished while playing in river with his big brother

A BODY has been found in the search for a schoolboy who vanished while playing in a river with his big brother.

Daniel Halliday, 14, was swept away by a strong current while swimming with friends in the River Mersey on June 30.

Merseyside Police

The youngster’s family said he had been jumping in waves on the beach with his brother – who desperately tried to save him.

Cops said a body has been found by HM Coastguard following a search for missing Daniel.

Before the body was found, Daniel’s family said: “Our worst fear is that this tragic accident has taken our lovely boy from us.

“Daniel was jumping waves with his big brother who tried to save him but the current was too strong.

“Daniel is a loving son, brother, cousin, nephew and grandson. The family are all devastated.”

The family added: “We hope that we will be allowed our privacy at this time. Thank you.”

Merseyside Police said the coastguard found a body off the coast of New Brighton last night.

The force added that the body has not yet been formally identified but officers are in contact with Daniel’s family.

More to follow.