Body found in search for missing Suffolk boy Noah Woods, 3

Supt Pearse said formal identification had yet to take place, but Noah’s family had been informed.

“Our thoughts are with Noah’s family and all those who knew him,” he said.

“We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of public support and people putting on their boots to help.”

Police said at least 1,300 members of the public had helped in the search for the missing boy, who was non-verbal and partially deaf.

People from as far afield as Birmingham and Hampshire had turned up to help.

Helicopters, dog units and members of the public had been scouring the area, close to the estuary of the River Stour on the Essex border.

Volunteer efforts had been co-ordinated from Brantham Leisure Centre and the village hall, which ran out of hi-vis vests due to the number of volunteers.

Those looking for Noah had been told he would not respond to shouting.