Body of Briton who disappeared five days ago found by police divers in river

She failed to turn up to work at the Tipple Bar on Friday morning.

Canning was later reported missing.

Divers from the North West Underwater Search Unit were deployed to search the area on Wednesday.

The team were assisted by the local fire and rescue service and area search personnel.

Lancashire Police revealed that the body of a woman was found near Halton at 4.20pm yesterday afternoon.

The force issued a statement before formal identification took place.

However, Lancashire Police appeared to suggest the body was of Canning.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "We can confirm that we were called today [yesterday] at around 4.20pm to a report that a body had been found in the River Lune, near Halton.

"Specialist search teams have subsequently attended the area and can sadly confirm that the body of a woman has been recovered.

"Although formal identification has yet to take place, we believe the body to be that of missing Shannon Canning.

"Shannon’s family have been made aware of this sad development and our thoughts are with them at this upsetting time."

The Tipple Bar, located on Lancaster’s King Street, revealed it would remain closed following Canning’s death.

The bar said on Facebook: “We are aware of the recent news regarding our colleague and friend, Shannon Canning.”

The statement added: “Tipple will be closed [on Wednesday night] and for the foreseeable.“

We kindly ask that you do not message us, comment, or post on our page regarding Shannon for the time being. We ask that you allow us some privacy and give us space process everything.

"Our thoughts are with Shannon's family at this awful time. Thank you for understanding."