A BODY has been recovered from the River North Esk near Dalkeith amid an ongoing hunt for a missing pensioner.
Police in Midlothian were called to the scene on Friday following the discovery of a man's body by a member of the public, who raised the alarm shortly before 6.30pm.
A formal identification is yet to take place, but the death is not being treated as suspicious at this time.
Officers have updated the family of 73-year-old Thomas Davidson, who has been the subject of a major search operation in the area since he was reported missing earlier this week.
Inspector Stuart Aitchison, who is based in Dalkeith, said: "Sadly a body has been recovered from the River North Esk this evening.
"A formal identification is yet to take place however we have been in contact with the family of Thomas Davidson and made them aware of this development.
"Our inquiries are at an early stage however we will continue to offer the family support as and when they need it."
The discovery came as the search for Mr Davidson entered its third day today.
The pensioner was last seen walking on Esk Place at the junction with Old Edinburgh Road, Dalkeith at around 9pm on Tuesday, April 26.
Since then he has not been seen or heard from and officers are extremely concerned for his welfare.
A major search operation has been underway in Dalkeith and surrounding areas involving specialist units including dog handlers, the Police Scotland marine unit and police helicopter.
Earlier today Inspector Michelle Ritchie, of Dalkeith police station, urged members of the public to check sheds and outbuildings for the 73-year-old.
She added: “Finding Thomas safe and well is a priority for us however it is unclear where he went after 9pm on Tuesday.
“His family are understandably very concerned and we are offering them support as and when required."
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