Police in South Belfast are appealing for help in identifying the body of a man found close to the Shaws Bridge area of the city on Friday afternoon

Sergeant Mike White said: “We believe this gentleman may have gone missing 24 to 48 hours prior to Friday and we are asking the public to think about any family members, neighbours or friends that they haven’t seen or heard from – and to check that they are safe and well.

“We think this gentleman is from the local area and may have walked to Shaws Bridge.

“He is in his late 50s, of average build, 5’ 8” in height, clean-shaven with short greying hair. He was wearing navy jeans, a long-sleeved, dark grey top and size 10 grey and navy trainers. He also has a bandage on his left, upper arm – which could be for a muscle injury.

“We have found only a house key in his possession, but no other personal items that could help with identification.

“If anyone believes that they can help police identify this gentleman or if you have information that could help with our enquiries, please contact us on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 522 of 14/7/17.

“A post mortem will be carried out to establish the cause of death but we are not treating it as suspicious at this time.”