CUMBRIA Police have today confirmed that the body found in the River Eden yesterday was an 81-year-old pensioner.

John Michael Parry, of Roper Street, Penrith, had been facing a murder charge following the death of his wife.

80-year-old Meryl was found dead at their Eden Valley home near Armathwaite on September 2.

Yesterday, police discovered Mr Parry's body in the water between Kirkoswald and Little Salkeld at 3.15pm.

The Coroner has be informed.