THE body of a man was recovered from the River Severn off a popular picnic spot after an overnight search involving lifeboats and a helicopter .

Gwent Police confirmed that the body was found off the Black Rock picnic site shortly after 9am on Monday morning, January 6, following the launch of a search operation on the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.

Four SARA lifeboats were launched from the Beachley station to search for the man, who has not been identified, shortly after 1am that morning.

The rescue group originally posted: “A long night. The SARA lifeboats were called out shortly after 1am this morning, to support an operation on the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.

“Lifeboats 1 and 3 from Severn Area Rescue Association - Beachley, and Lifeboats 2 and 4 from Severn Area Rescue Association - Sharpness Lifeboat Station were all launched.

“Together with the Coastguard Helicopter they conducted an extensive search of a large area of the Rivers Severn and Wye on an incoming tide.?“The crews were stood down around 6am, having searched for over four hours but not finding anything. Many thanks to all who turned out (some for the second time in one night).”

Later they confirmed the finding of the body, saying: “SARA Lifeboat 3 was launched again this morning, to renew the search of the Severn from last night.

“Sadly a body was found shortly after 9am and was recovered back to Beachley. Our thoughts are with the family of the man concerned at this difficult time.”

A man from the Cwmbran area posted in response: “Thank you for finding him, we would be more devastated if we never knew where he was, so thank you all and stay safe, I say this from his family and friends xx.”

The Coastguard helicopter also joined the search.

A Gwent Police spokesperson said: ““At about 9.15am on Monday 6th January the body of a man was found on the river-bank off Black Rock road. The death is not being treated as suspicious.”