A BODY has been found in the search for missing Winsford paddleboarder, Simon Daniels, who disappeared at Dovestone Reservoir.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed the search for Simon, a personal trainer, came to a tragic conclusion at 6.15pm on Wednesday, October 23, when a body was recovered from the reservoir by a police underwater search team.

A major search operation was launched at the beauty spot on Saddleworth Moor, to the east of Oldham, shortly after 2.30pm on Sunday, October 20, after emergency services received reports of a man and a woman falling into the water from an inflatable paddleboard.

The woman was rescued and later treated for shock and hypothermia by paramedics.

The search for the man, Simon, went on until Wednesday, October 23, when a body was recovered from the water.

Police have confirmed the body found is that of the missing 29-year-old.  

Detective Inspector Laura Crossley of Oldham CID confirmed Simon’s family have been informed of the sad discovery, and are being supported specialist officers.

DI Crossley said: “At 6.15pm this evening, the police underwater search team discovered a body, which has now been confirmed as Simon Daniels from Cheshire.

“We have informed Simon’s family of this development.

“Throughout this tragic incident, we have been in close contact with Simon’s family and will continue to offer them our support as they come to terms with their loss.

“His death is not being treated as suspicious and the scene has now been closed.

“A report is being prepared for the corner.

“We appreciate the public’s support in enabling search teams to carry out their investigations.

“We understand the inconvenience this may have caused over the last few days, but it was important we conducted a full and thorough search for Simon.”

Simon’s friends and clients, as well as the wider public, took to Northwich & Winsford Guardian’s Facebook page to express their sorrow over Simon’s disappearance.   

Emily Whitaker, a former client of Simon’s, said: “It’s such a tragedy.

“He was my personal trainer for a while, and he just had the most beautiful soul.

“He had a heart for people and infectious energy."