A BODY found on the beach at Blackpool on Saturday, March 13, is that of Carl McGrath, police have confirmed.

Carl McGrath was reported missing, along with two other fishermen, on January 27.

The family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

A spokesperson from North Wales Police said: "The family would like to thank all members of the community for their help and support, but ask that their privacy is respected at this time.

"Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all three fishermen."

Skipper Mr McGrath, 34, Ross Ballantine, 39 and Alan Minard went missing off the coast of Conwy.

A huge search-operation was carried out on January 28 and 29 but the vessel, nor its crew, were found.

The bodies of three men were recovered from the coastline off the Wirral and Blackpool over the weekend of March 13-14.

Prior to tonight's sad update, North Wales Police said it had informed the families and was awaiting the outcome of the Home Office post-mortem examinations.

A private search for the missing fishing boat 'Nicola Faith' is currently underway.

Oceanographer David Mearns, an American marine scientist and expert in deep water recovery, is leading the search which began on Saturday at 6am.

Mr Mearns, who helped the recovery of the plane carrying Cardiff City footballer Emiliano Sala, is providing additional expertise to the investigation being carried out by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB).

The UK Government agency has searched more than 30 square miles of seabed using specialist equipment and has shared its information with Mr Mearns.