A BODY has been found in the search for a missing jet-skier who disappeared in the Solent a week ago.

The body has yet to be formally identified but the family of Elezaj Shkelzen has been informed of the discovery, which was made near Ryde Pier.

Mr Shkelzen, 33, from Oxfordshire, was travelling from Lymington to Langstone Harbour when he went missing.

As reported in the Daily Echo, a major air and sea search was launched after his jet-ski was found drifting off Stokes Bay, Gosport.

The white-and-burgundy Yamaha Waverunner, with a ‘201 Langstone Harbour’ sticker, had its kill-cord detached, and a mobile phone was also on board.

The body was found following a joint operation involving Hampshire police, the coastguard rescue helicopter from Lee-on-the-Solent and the Hill Head Coastguard Rescue Team.

A police spokesperson said: "A man’s body has been found in the Solent. Formal identification has yet to take place but the family of missing Elezaj Shkelzen have been informed.

“At this time, a missing person investigation is still ongoing with regards to Elezaj.”