Body found in search for missing mother Victoria Taylor

While formal identification is yet to take place, Taylor's family have been informed of the development.

The disappearance of the mother-of-one had prompted a major police search operation in the area.

Specialist officers are now providing support to the family as the investigation continues.

Taylor was reported missing on October 1 - sparking immediate concern for her welfare.

For over three weeks, authorities and local volunteers conducted extensive searches in the area.

The discovery in the River Derwent marked a tragic development in the case.

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The community of Malton had been deeply affected by Taylor's disappearance.

Assistant Chief Constable, Wayne Fox, told a press conference at Fulford police station in York: "Today we have recovered a body in connection with the search for Victoria Taylor.

"The police underwater search team made the discovery at 11.45am this morning in the River Derwent near to where Victoria's items were recovered."

ACC Fox added: "While today's outcome is not what anyone wished for, Victoria's family have asked me to express thanks to those who supported North Yorkshire Police and the emergency services."

The last CCTV footage recorded of Victoria showed her walking towards a children's playground close to the River Derwent in Norton at 12.30pm on September 30.

A number of her belongings were found in that area and North Yorkshire Police were focusing their search efforts above and below the river.

Large missing posters were put up in the town centre and along the A64 road between York and Scarborough during the three-week search.