Essex Police has made a referral to the Independent Officer for Police Conduct following the discovery of a man’s body in the search for Marc Jones. 

Police have conducted a search for the missing father Marc Jones, 44, from Marlow in Buckinghamshire, who disappeared during a visit to family in Hockley on December 23. 

During a search in Hockley Woods on December 30, the body of a man had been found and formal identification has been carried out.  

Essex Police have now made a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). 

A statement said: “This is not because of any misconduct matters identified but rather to seek to identify whether there were early opportunities or lines of enquiry to be explored which were not. 

“In every missing persons case, our goal is to locate the individual safely and without them coming to harm. Officers work determinedly to achieve that goal. Unfortunately, that goal cannot always be realised.  

“Marc’s family and loved ones have been updated consistently and are aware of our referral to the IOPC. 

“Our thoughts continue to be with Marc’s family and loved ones at this very difficult time and they are aware they can contact us at any time.” 

Mark went on a walk alone towards Guide Woods from Woodside Road at the bottom of Bullwood Approach on December 23 at 8.45am. 

His disappearance was described as “completely out of character” and sparked a search for him in the area, as well as tireless attempts by family and friends to locate him. 

The discovery of the body left Marc’s family shocked and in deep sadness. 

In a statement, the family turned to all those who tried to locate Marc in the past days. 

"We will forever be truly touched by the kindness of strangers, the tenacity of friends and the great outpouring of love for Marc and the family during this time. 

"We appreciate all your love and support. As a family, we now need time to grieve privately." 

Those who would like to share their condolences with Marc's family can contact marcjonescondolences@megacentrerayleigh.co.uk