Mother says loch body is missing student Antoine Maury Published duration 2 December 2016

image caption The body was found in Duddingston Loch on Friday morning

The mother of a missing French student has confirmed that his body has been found in Duddingston Loch in Edinburgh.

Antoine Maury, 21, was last seen more than a month ago. He disappeared after leaving a group of friends suddenly on Monday 24 October.

A man matching his description was later seen at the loch wearing no top.

On Facebook, his mother Laura Maury thanked people for their help and support over the last few weeks.

She said: "For all of you out there and particularly to all of Antoine's, older and more previous friends.

"My beloved sons body was recovered in the Dudingston Loch earlier this morning. Antoine would had turned 22 on the 31st of December this year. Thank you all for your help and support during the last 5 and 1/2 weeks. God bless you all."

image caption Antoine Maury's mother Laura took part in earlier searches in Duddingston

Divers and sonar equipment were used in the search for Mr Maury whose family travelled to Edinburgh to appeal for information.

Earlier, a Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "Police in Edinburgh can confirm that a body has been recovered from Duddingston Loch.

"The discovery was reported to police around 10:30 on Friday, 2 December.

"Inquiries are ongoing to establish the man's identity.

"The family of Antoine Maury have been informed of this development."

image caption Police in Edinburgh cordoned off Duddingston Loch