Authorities in Spain have discovered a body believed to be that of Andrew Wade, a 65-year-old British man who went missing on the Costa del Sol last month. Wade was last seen on August 15, prompting concern from friends who reported that they were extremely worried about his wellbeing after he left his home near Marbella.

Today, the National Police announced that they had located a body in an area known as Paraiso, near Estepona. A police spokesman stated, "This morning, the National Police, members of Civil Protection and the Estepona Fire Brigade have set up an extensive search operation to locate a British citizen who disappeared on August 15 in the area."

The search operation involved a thorough investigation into Wade's last known movements. Authorities revealed that he was preparing to return to the UK, which added to the urgency of the search. The spokesman continued, "Throughout this time, an exhaustive investigation has been carried out, studying the steps that this person, a 65-year-old man, might have taken until the day of his disappearance."

Despite previous efforts that included drone surveillance of the wooded area, the dense undergrowth had hindered progress. However, today’s search yielded results, leading to the discovery of the body. The police confirmed that the identity and cause of death are still pending verification.

Friends of Wade expressed their concern during the search, noting that he had left behind his two cats, which they described as "very unlike him." One acquaintance referred to him as "lovely," highlighting the impact of his disappearance on those who knew him.

Spanish charity SOS Desaparecidos has urged anyone with information regarding Wade's disappearance to come forward. At the time he went missing, he was reportedly driving a black Volkswagen Golf.