Police in Fife have confirmed that a body has been found in the Temple area of Lower Largo during the search for missing man Thomas Semple.
The body was discovered on the beach in the area by the Coastguard at around 4am on Friday morning.
No identity has been established at this time.
Officers, however, have notified the family of 85-year-old Mr Semple, who was reported missing from his home in Lundin Links at around 3.30pm on Thursday.
Inspector Jim Davenport of Levenmouth said: “We can confirm that an unidentified body has been found and that the enquiry is at a very early stage.
“The death is currently being treated as unexplained, pending the results of a post mortem examination. We will continue to keep the family of Thomas Semple updated with the progress of this enquiry.”
Police revealed in the early hours of this morning that they were concerned for the welfare of Mr Semple.
Mr Semple walked with a stoop and usually uses a stick, although he left it at home. He used to be a regular dog walker in the golf course and coastal areas around Lundin Links.
Police Scotland had deployed substantial resources in an effort to trace Mr Semple, including air support from the RAF.