A FARMER checking his fields came across the body of man who had been missing since November.

The farmer from Uckinghall, near Upton, found the body of Stuart Titley, aged 60.

Mr Titley, commonly known as Joe, was reported missing by his family on Friday, November 16, 2012, and was last seen the previous day.

Concern had been growing for his safety after his shopping bag containing personal items was found by the Severn in Stourport on Saturday, November 17.

West Mercia Police were contacted at about 11.45am on Sunday after his body was found by the farmer.

Formal identification took place yesterday on Wednesday afternoon and Mr Titley’s next of kin have been informed.

Mr Titley’s sister Gina Pardoe issued a plea in November for anyone who may have known of his whereabouts.

Mr Titley lived alone in Gibbons Crescent and was well known in Stourport.

On the day he was last seen he visited his parents’ grave at St Michael’s Church and left the Old Crown Inn – the Wetherspoons pub in Bridge Street – after 1pm before heading towards the river.

Post-mortem tests have been carried out and an inquest will be opening in due course.

There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances and police are not looking for anyone else.

An inquest has been opened and adjourned.