A BODY has been found in the search for a missing young father, shortly after his family made an emotional appeal for his safe return.

Andrew Gallacher was last seen in a William Hill bookmakers in his hometown of Kilwinning, North Ayrshire, at about 5pm on Friday.

Police leading the search for him discovered a body in a wooded area near to Dubbs Road in the town at about 2.30pm yesterday.

Formal identification has yet to take place but it is believed to be the missing 20-year-old.

The death is not being treated as suspicious, the police said.

The discovery came as Mr Gallacher's family held a press conference to appeal for any information about his disappearance.

His father, also Andrew, said: "Andrew, we're all missing you — Laura, baby Olivia, myself and mum — we're desperate to hear from you.

"We just want you home and to know that you're safe. We love you."

Mr Gallacher's bike was found by officers on Monday close to Dubbs Road and searches began in the surrounding area.

During the press conference police thanked members of the public who had been helping with the search in Kilwinning and spreading information appeals on social media.