The search for a missing grandfather Paul Perkins has been called off after a body was found by a member of the public.

Mr Perkins, 58, had been missing from his home in Norman Road, Tunbridge Wells, since May 28.

A police spokesman confirmed today: "We were called to the Shrublands Court area of Tunbridge Wells on the evening of Saturday to a report that the body of a man had been found.

"Formal identification has not taken place but the family of Paul Perkins have been informed."

The death is not being treated as suspicious. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Mr Perkins' daughter Katy Perkins, 27, who lives in Westerham, had previously issued an appeal for help in finding her father.

He had gone missing from his home in Tunbridge Wells earlier in May but was subsequently found safe in Ashdown Forest.

The widower, a mini-cab driver, leaves three grown-up children and four grandchildren.

Volunteers from Kent Search and Rescue had carried out extensive searches.

Mr Perkins' Facebook page said: "It is with regret we can announce that Pau was found deceased by a member of public near his home in Tunbridge Wells.

"The response from members of the pubic has been outstanding especially in these difficult times.

"On behalf of the family we would like to thank everyone who has offered their help and support throughout these last couple of weeks."

A Gofundme page had been set up for the family by Vicki North and had raised £2,865 towards printing missing posters and paying for private healthcare when he was found.

She wrote: "We are asking for any donations big or small because our Dad, brother, partner and friend is missing. The police have exhausted all resources in a bid to find him for the second time after he left his home alone again, this time without a word, phone or key."

"After disappearing three weeks ago leaving behind tragic goodbye notes to his loved ones, we realised Paul was not in a good state of mind and was struggling emotionally with the stress of lockdown and coronavirus. Being self-employed and out of work, things have all got too much."

She said: "This money will be well used in finding him the private help he desperately needs for his care after this trauma he’s been through, having being so stretched due to the coronavirus. We fear the wait for NHS care will be just too long to wait for, after being sent home so soon last time."

She added: "Any money left over will be split between Sussex Search and Rescue the mental health charity MIND to help other people that may be in this horrible situation."

She said: "Dad is usually so full of life, always helping where he can, involving himself among the community, often meeting new people on radio and Facebook groups and is always there to pick people up when they are in need.

"He loves his children and grandchildren unconditionally as they do him. His funny, caring beautiful character is one in which we need to restore him with, as he has touched the lives of so many with his wit and love throughout his life.

"We cannot begin to imagine our lives without him."

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