Tributes paid after body found in search for missing Fife man

Father known affectionately as ‘Boss’ described as a ‘true gentleman’ and a ‘fantastic dad’

A body has been discovered in the search for missing Fife man John Bedborough.

A member of the public made the heartbreaking find at around 9.45am yesterday in the Porterfield area of Oakley.

Formal identification has yet to take place but the family of the 45-year-old have been informed.

It is understood the death is not being treated as suspicious.

John – who was affectionately known as ‘Boss’ by friends – was last seen leaving an address in the Hillview area of the town at around 10.30pm on Sunday.

Worried loved ones shared appeals for information on social media in a bid to trace his whereabouts.

Residents from the village gathered yesterday morning at Oakley Social Club to carry out searches in the local area, before the tragic discovery was made.

Dozens of tributes have poured in from devastated friends who described him as a “true gentleman”.

Lou Black wrote on Facebook: “Heart is broken. It’s been a real pleasure knowing such a great man. RIP Boss. A true gentleman, awesome friend.

“Will cherish our childhood memories. Fantastic dad you will be so missed.”

Daughter Lauren Bedborough said: “RIP to the best person. Love you forever dad.”

Cousin Terry Heard wrote: “My wee cousin. RIP can’t believe it. When you would come to Wales we had so much fun growing up. God bless you sleep tight cuz from all in Wales.”

Jade Roe said: “The village has lost another one far too soon. Sleep tight Boss, you were one of a kind.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “We can confirm that a man’s body has been found during the ongoing search to trace 45-year-old John Bedborough.

“A member of the public reported the discovery within the Porterfield area of Oakley at around 9.45am on Tuesday December 4.

“No formal identification has taken place at this time, however the family of John Bedborough have been informed and will be kept fully updated.”

“Heart is broken. It’s been a real pleasure knowing such a great man. RIP Boss. A true gentleman, awesome friend. LOU BLACK

Mr Bedborough was described as “one of a kind” in one of several tributes paid on social media.