A FORMAL identification has been carried out on a body found near New Brighton lighthouse last week.

Police have confirmed the deceased was an 80-year-old man from Stockbridge Village in Liverpool.

It is thought his death was caused by drowning.

Officers say there are no suspicious circumstances.

A post mortem is to be carried out and toxicology reports are due back later this week.

It is not known how long the deceased's remains had been in the water.

The man's family have been informed and have requested their identity is not revealed