A COMMUNITY has been left in shock after a body was found in the search for a serviceman who went missing from his home in Purbeck.

Robert McAvoy, 39, was last seen leaving his home in Wain Road, Bovington, at around 5.10pm on Monday, March 25.

He drove off in his Land Rover after saying he was going to Dorchester.

He was then reported missing at 6.21pm as he had not been heard from since.

Just before 9pm on Monday night, Dorset Police issued an appeal for his whereabouts and said they were becoming "very concerned" for his welfare.

They urged anyone who had seen him or his car to contact police.

A major search was carried out with as many as 100 people from Bovington Camp reportedly assisting to help find Mr McAvoy. The police helicopter also assisted in the search.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, police said a body had been found in a "remote area" of Dorset.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "A search of the area was carried out into the night. Very sadly, the body of a man was discovered in a remote area near Crossways.

"Although the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be Robert and his family has been informed. His death is not being treated as suspicious."

Members of the armed forces took to social media to share their condolences following the discovery.

All Call Signs, a peer-to-peer app for veterans and serving military personnel, said on Facebook: "Our entire community's heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends. We're sorry we couldn't get to you Robert."

While one of the trustees for The Veterans Charity said on Twitter: "Another member of the Armed Forces died at their own hand yesterday. Please remember Robert McAvoy the latest victim. The battles don't end when the war is over."

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