THE father of a missing man who was found dead has told of his heartbreaking journey thousands of miles back to see his son.

Police launched a search for Callum Brown after he went missing after a night out in Colchester.

His body was found in the Riv er Colne in Castle Park five days later.

Police, who had appealed for information, called off the search for Callum and informed his next of kin.

Callum’s father, Colin, who lives in Canada, flew back to England yesterday.

He said: “Now we have the hardest task to perform. It is the hardest journey we will ever make.

“Everyone has shown us both so much love.

“My parents, daughter, brothers, nephews and other family are eternally grateful to all the friends which have all rallied behind us and we are so grateful for all the support you offered, extended and performed and all the kind sentiments.”

Callum, who was 21, lived in Wivenhoe with his mum and his step dad.

He went missing after a night out and was last seen leaving Qube nightclub in Crouch Street, Colchester, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Friends and family joined in the search for him including sharing the appeal across social media.

Heartbroken Colin added: “Callum would be so proud of everyone and we love him and know he will always be with us.

“My dearest son, my best friend, together we went through some of our darkest hours and most beautiful moments, we laughed and cried together, we fought all foes and overcame the odds.

“I will love you forever, Dad.”

Friends and family have also been paying tribute to Callum on Facebook.

His uncle, Ian Brown, said: “Thank you all for caring and sharing my post regarding my nephew Callum. He has been found and unfortunately is not the news we wanted.

“I thank you all for the help and love you have given us. RIP Callum, we all love you.”

Ian described the response from the public and those on social media as overwhelming.

The family also thanked the emergency services for their support.

One of his friends, Will Francis, said: “He was my best friend and I can’t think about life without him.”

Callum worked for Anglian Water. He spent his spare time with his school friends or enjoying music.

Essex Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious and the body is being prepared for the coroner.