A BODY found in the River Mersey in February has been identified as that of a Merseyside man who was reported missing last year, it has been confirmed.

Police received a report that the body of a man had been found at around 9.50am on Sunday, February 11.

After extensive forensic examinations by Merseyside Police, the man has been formally identified as father-of-four Carl Williams, 48, who had been reported missing on Friday, December 29. Officers are supporting his family at this difficult time.

Wirral Globe: Carl Williams from Everton was reported missing from his home in the early hours of Friday, December 29 last year. His body was found in the River Mersey on February 11Carl Williams from Everton was reported missing from his home in the early hours of Friday, December 29 last year. His body was found in the River Mersey on February 11 (Image: Merseyside Police)

Mr Williams was seen leaving his home on Queens Road in Everton at 2.36am on Friday, December 29. He was caught on CCTV in the Otterspool Promenade area hours later, at 4.36am but had not been seen since. 

His disappearance was described by relatives as "completely out of character". His family had hoped he would be found in time for the birth of his first grandchild, a baby girl, in January.

His death is being treated as not suspicious and the case was referred to the coroner’s office.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to DM @MerPolCC quoting reference 24000165262.