Body found in search for missing soldier Alex Cairnie who vanished from base

A body has been discovered in the search for a missing soldier, police have confirmed.

Alex Cairnie, 30, a sergeant in the Queen’s Royal Hussars regiment, was last seen at around noon on July 6 leaving Tidworth camp in Wiltshire. His disappearance sparked a huge hunt, with soldiers scouring the countryside with military personnel, drones and dogs deployed.

Tonight, the force announced that, at around 6pm this evening, a body was found near Warren Hill. Police say there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances following his death, and his next of kin have been informed.

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A statement from Wiltshire police read: "We are very sad to report that a body has been found this evening in the search for missing Alex from Perham Down. Alex, 30, was reported missing on Sunday afternoon leaving Tidworth camp and an urgent search has been ongoing since to find him.

"Sadly, at around 6pm this evening, a body was found near Warren Hill. While formal identification has yet to take place, it is believed to be Alex and his next of kin have been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this tragic time. There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances and a file will be prepared for the coroner."

DI Mark Kent said: “Our thoughts are very much with the family and loved ones of Alex at this extremely difficult time. I would like to thank all those involved in the search efforts to locate him.”

Following his disappearance on Sunday, posters were distributed around the local area as members of the community are being urged to check outbuildings, sheds and rural areas for signs of the missing soldier.

Hundreds joined the search in a volunteer team organised by Drew Short, from DS rescue and recovery. He wrote yesterday: "We’ve got a search and rescue dog along with 3 trucks were more than happy to give up our time and money. We won’t stop looking for you until you are found by someone. We’re all really hoping you are ok and please reach out to someone."

Sgt Gareth Brooks said before tonight's statement that he was a much-loved member of the military. He said: “Alex, we need to know that you are safe. Please call 101 and ask to be put through to me directly. I’m here to listen and I can give you the time you need to talk things through. There are many people, who care about you and they need to know that you are OK."

Amesbury Police said previously: "We are very concerned for his welfare. He is thought to have been wearing a light coloured t-shirt and black/grey trousers. If you see him, or know of his whereabouts, please contact us on 999 quoting log 214 of today's date."