Police have recovered the body of a regional newspaper sales man missing since before Christmas from a river in South Wales.

Ben Caplan, who worked in the circulation department at the South Wales Argus, had not been seen since 8 December when he disappeared following a night out with friends in Caerleon, near Newport.

Gwent police recovered a body from the River Usk in Caerleon yesterday which is believed to be that of the 30-year-old.

A police spokesman told the Argus that formal identification had yet to take place, but Mr Caplan’s family had been informed and are being supported by officers.

The spokesman added: “Our condolences remain with Ben’s family.”

Argus editor Kevin Ward also penned a moving tribute to Ben which was published on the newspaper’s website.

Wrote Kevin:  “One of the sad duties of a newspaper is to report tragedies. Some of us have done so hundreds of times, but it is never an easy task.

“Today it has been harder than ever. Ben Caplan was our friend and colleague. He had been a well-loved member of our staff for more than a decade.

“We have lost a dear friend and colleague and it hurts like hell. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ben’s widow Danielle, their children, and all of his family and friends.”

Hundreds of Argus readers had posted statements on social networking sites appealing to find Ben and his picture was shared more than 2,000 times on Facebook.