A BODY found in the river Avon near Bradford on Avon last night is thought to be that of missing Trowbridge woman Antonietta Guarino.

Police said the discovery was made by a member of the public last night about 200 metres downstream from the weir near the sailing club.

The body has been taken to Southmead Hospital mortuary in Bristol where a post mortem examination will be conducted at 11am by Home Office pathologist Dr Huw White.

Wiltshire Police said they are unable to confirm the identity of the body at this stage, but it is expected it is that of Mrs Guarino, who was last seen on January 7.

Two Trowbridge men, 19-year-old David Carr-Burstow and Mrs Guarino's lodger Marc Riley, 24, have been charged with her murder and have made an initial appearance at Bristol Crown Court.

Police launched a murder inquiry last month, which at its peak saw more than 100 officers involved.