The body of a man struck by a Metro train near Gateshead on Friday 13 January has been identified as a missing person from Skipton.

Matthew John Thornton, aged 45, had been reported missing from home on 22 January, however he had not been seen for over a week prior to his reported disappearance.

His death triggered extensive media coverage across the North East to help police to identify him.

Chief Inspector Mark Warcup, from Gateshead Area Command, said: "Our thoughts are very much with Mr Thornton's family at this very difficult time. We offer our sincere condolences to them and his friends.

"I would like to express my sincere thanks to the public and media for their support over the past two weeks, during what has been an extremely difficult identification process."

It is believed there was no third party involvement and a report has been prepared for the coroner.

Officers from Skipton police are working closely with Mr Thornton's family.