THE body found near an Irvine caravan park this week has been confirmed as that of missing Ardrossan man Tony Lowey.

As exclusively revealled by our sister paper the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald yesterday, Police believe the body found in marshy land near Redburn Caravan Park is that of the 51-year-old, who has been missing since Christmas.

His sister Joanne Lowey posted on social media: “Closure equals peace of mind. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Another family member confirmed the news yesterday, saying: “My uncle Tony was found yesterday. Unfortunately he’s no longer with us.

"To say I’m heartbroken is an understatement.”

Officers were called at around 4.30pm on Monday, March 12 after the body was found in marshy ground near to Redburn Caravan Park.

Police remained on the scene yesterday as investigations were carried out at Ravenspark Golf Course and forensic teams trawled the area for clues.

The golf course was closed until investigations were completed.

A spokeswoman from Police Scotland said: “At around 4.30pm on Monday, March 12, police responded to a report of the body of a man found within water in marshy ground near Redburn Caravan Park in Kilwinning Road, Irvine. Emergency Services attended and the body was recovered.

"No formal identification has taken place, however officers believe the body recovered  is that of 51 year-old Anthony Lowey.  A post mortem examination will be carried out in due course, however, the death is not being treated as suspicious.  A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.  

"Mr Lowey’s relatives have been made aware."