Body found on Sussex beach believed to be missing woman

Although the body has not been formally identified, it is believed to be that of missing Sompting woman Jill Barnes, according to Sussex Police.

Jill was last seen at her home in Western Road, Sompting, on Monday night (November 23).

An extensive search of the area was carried out by police, the police helicopter, coastguard, the fire brigade and search volunteers.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: “Due to the high tide and its position, emergency services were unable to remove Jill’s body when it was found this morning but they worked in difficult weather conditions at low tide this afternoon to recover her.

“Police are not treating her death as suspicious and the coroner’s officer is dealing with it.”

Inspector Roy Hodder said: “Obviously this is not the outcome we were hoping for.

“We are supporting Jill’s family at this difficult time and they have been asked they be left alone to grieve in peace.”

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