The body of a teenager missing for almost a month has been found in a Kent park.

Russel Burdette-Deakin, 17, was reported missing on Wednesday, September 6.

After disappearing weeks ago, with no trace of his whereabouts, police, family and friends put out multiple appeals and conducted extensive searches to find him.

The former Maplesden Noakes School and Mid Kent College student was last seen leaving his home near Sutton Road.

His body was found at Mote Park in Maidstone earlier today.

A police spokesman said: “Officers searching for a missing teenage boy have located a body in Maidstone.

“We attended Mote Park at about 11am on Monday, where a body was located in woodland.

“While formal identification has not yet taken place, the family of a 17-year-old boy who was reported missing on Wednesday, September 6 have been informed.”

A member of Russel’s family announced the news on social media, with one woman commenting: “Fly high angel in the sky. Sending lots of love at this very sad time.”

While another added: “So very sorry for you and your family’s loss. Sending huge hugs.”