A BODY was discovered in the River Wye close to Bigsweir Bridge last night (6th March).

Gwent Police were made aware of the grim discovery just before 5pm.

Attempts were made by the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA) to retrieve the corpse from the water, but the task was called off at 9pm due to failing light and rising water levels.

Police recovered the body this afternoon.

"At this time the death is not being treated as suspicious.  Enquiries are currently ongoing into the identity of the deceased," said a Gwent Police spokesman.