A body of a male has been found on a beach on the Cumbrian coast about 1/2 mile from the mouth of the River Derwent at Workington in the area being searched for the missing Cumbrian constable.

PC Bill Barker (44yrs) was reported missing during the night. He was on duty and directing traffic away from Northside Bridge, Workington which was in danger of collapse in torrential floodwater.

About 4.40am the bridge did collapse, severing a major gas pipe. In the aftermath PC Barker could not be accounted for and a search was initiated.

Cumbria Assistant Chief Constable Jerry Graham announced that an unidentified body was found on a beach. Mr Graham said PC Barker was "saving lives when the tragic incident occurred".

Mr Graham said: "I'm very sad to have to report we've recovered a body on the beach of an individual. That has not been identified. Our thoughts go out to Pc Barker and his family.

"PC Barker had been serving in Cumbria Police for 25 years. I've heard nothing but good reports about him today. He was a family man with four children."

Mr Graham said PC Barker and a colleague went on the bridge on foot in an attempt to help drivers trying to get across it.

He said: "Unfortunately when they were on the bridge, the bridge gave way just due to the volume of water and PC Barker went into the water and was swept away."

A major search for PC Barker was hampered by "horrendous" weather conditions which forced hundreds of people to flee their homes.

The body found on the beach has not yet been formally identifed however unofficial sources report that the deceased was dressed in a police uniform.

Cumbria Police are supporting PC Barker's family and will issue further information when appropriate.