POLICE have confirmed a body found in the River Wear was that of Leanne Chambers, who went missing more than five months ago.

Ms Chambers, originally from Shildon, went missing at the end of February from the home she shared with partner Steve Crossland in Chester-le-Street.

Results from DNA tests proved what police, and Leanne's family had suspected since the body was found in the River Wear at Cox Green, between Penshaw and Sunderland on July 1.

Her mother, Val Chambers said the news would at least allow the family the chance to move on and grieve properly for the popular 30-year-old, who would have celebrated her birthday on June 7.

Northumbria Police are compiling a report on behalf of the Sunderland coroner, who will organise an inquest into Leanne's death in due course.