A WOMAN reported missing yesterday has been found dead in a river.

Police searching for Maria Di Fatima Carvalho De Brito discovered a body in Astley Brook at about 11am today.

The body, found in water behind Waterside Gardens, an apartment complex in The Valley, is that of Ms De Brito, police have confirmed.

Police called off their search for the 50-year-old Portuguese woman shortly after making the discovery. 

The death remains unexplained, although there is nothing to suggest any suspicious circumstances at this stage.

Ms De Brito had gone missing from an address near Blackburn Road at about 9.45am yesterday.

The Portuguese woman's purse or mobile phone had been left at home, prompting police concerns.

A post-mortem examination is to be carried out imminently.

She was wearing the same clothes as when reported missing when she was discovered, police said.

Ms De Brito, who spoke little English, was last seen after she returned home from Asda in Astley Bridge yesterday morning, where she went to buy a loaf of bread.

She was wearing , and was about 5ft tall and of a slim build

Det Insp Chris Mossop, of Bolton North neighbourhood policing team, said: "Investigations are ongoing as to how she got into the water.

"Early indications are that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

"We are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination and investigations are ongoing.

"Anyone who may have seen her during the period she was missing should contact police."

The Valley is home to a number of businesses, including the Virgin Active gym, Frankie and Benny's, Spice Valley and the Cineworld Cinema. They are all open as usual.