An Ottery school is offering support to pupils following the discovery of a body, in a search for missing year 11 classmate Daniel Chambers.

The 15-year-old has been missing since Wednesday. Volunteers and emergency services search experts have been looking for the teen in and around the River Otter.

On Saturday police broke the news that they had found a body of a male in a field near Tipton St John, in East Devon, at around 11.35am.

No formal identification has been done yet and a forensic post mortem is due to take place in the next couple of days. But, Daniel’s family have been informed of the development.

Special assemblies were held at The King’s School yesterday (Monday) to share the news with students.

In a letter released by the school, headteacher Rob Gammon said: “I am sure that many of you will be aware from social media and press reports over the last few days that the police have been searching for one of our Year 11 students who was reported missing last week.

“It is with great sadness that I am writing to inform you that a body has been found near Tipton St John which is believed to be that of our student. A formal identification has still to be made.

“This news has been shared with students today during special assemblies. Our thoughts are with his family at this most difficult time and I would ask that you respect their privacy and feelings. I am also mindful that this will be a difficult time for the school community and that additional support may be required for students and staff as they come to terms with this news.

“The school is being well supported by Devon County Council, the Educational Psychology Service and local clergy. This help will continue as necessary over the coming days in the lead up to the end of the term. If you have any concerns, then please do not hesitate to contact the school.”

Police are carrying out enquiries to establish the circumstances of the death but it is not being treated as suspicious at this time.

Body found in search for missing Daniel Chambers

Sister of Daniel Chambers thanks public for support