A BODY was recovered in the River Mersey, off New Brighton last night, police have confirmed.

There were reports of a large presence of emergency services on Monday evening and HM Coastguard made the tragic discovery.

Police say the body has not been formally identified but they remain in contact with the family of teenager Daniel Halliday, who went missing while swimming at Crosby beach last month.

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that a body has been found by the Coastguard off New Brighton, last night, Monday 8 July.

"Although the body has not yet been formally identified, officers remain in contact with the family of Daniel Halliday, 14, who went missing at Crosby beach on Sunday, 30 June."

Daniel had been jumping waves on a beach with his brother. They were with a group of friends swimming near a radar tower on Crosby Beach.

He was lost to a strong current in the River Mersey despite his older brother trying to save him, his family said in a statement.

“Our worst fear is that this tragic accident has taken our lovely boy from us,” their statement issued last week, released through Merseyside Police, said.

“Daniel was jumping waves with his big brother, who tried to save him, but the current was too strong.

Daniel HallidayDaniel Halliday (Image: Merseyside Police)

“Daniel is a loving son, brother, cousin, nephew and grandson.

“The family are all devastated, and we hope that we will be allowed our privacy at this time. Thank you.”

The teenager’s family have received ongoing support from specially trained Merseyside Police officers.