TRIBUTES have been coming in for James Parsons whose body was discovered last week after having been missing since the Porthleven Food Festival.

James, who was also known as Frank, Francis or Fran, had not been seen since attending Porthleven Food Festival on Friday, April 22.

Police were alerted to the discovery by HM Coastguard with the report that a body had been located and recovered from the sea off St Mary’s, at the Isles of Scilly.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "The body of a man has been found in the search for 53-year-old James ‘Frank’ Parsons, who was reported missing from the Porthleven area of Cornwall on April 22.

"Police were contacted by HM Coastguard with a report that a body had been located and recovered from the sea off St Mary’s, at the Isles of Scilly, at around noon on Wednesday 4 May.

"The family of Mr Parsons have been informed of the discovery.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner."

In their official statement, Frank's family said: "We have been informed by Devon and Cornwall Police that a body has been found on the Isles of Scilly.

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"We thank everyone for their support throughout the last two weeks in helping us find Frank especially those who have helped search land sea and air, and all your kind words of support and for sharing our posts on social media.

"We are asking for some privacy at this time as we try to come to terms with this news as a family.

"Thank you."

The statement, which was posted to social media, received a plethora of tributes to Frank, with many people sharing their condolences with the family.

Commenter Kerry Williams said: "Thinking of you all at this extremely sad time, Franko was one of the best and he will be forever with us all."

Gemma Lamble, who said she had known the family for years, said: "So heartbreaking, I’ll always remember the jokes and the dance moves lol rest easy Fran."

Upon reporting the news last week, people also took to The Packet's social media page to share their condolences.

Commenting on the news, Michelle Easton said: "Totally heartbreaking for his loved ones.

"Sincere condolences to them all."

Frank's family have asked for privacy whilst they come to terms with the news.