Tragic ending to desperate search for missing man in Lake Macquarie

A 33-hour police search for a missing man has ended in tragedy after a body was found.

Police have discovered a body during the search for a missing man from Lake Macquarie.

Mark Walker was last seen leaving Belmont Hospital on Croudace Bay Road about 3am on Tuesday.

A police search was launched after Mark was reported missing.

When staff could not locate the 45-year-old, police were notified and officers began a search for him.

State emergency services, surf life saving officials, fire and rescue and PolAir assisted in the search.

Police located a body believed to be Mr Walker at Valentine about 1.30pm on Wednesday.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Originally published as Tragic ending to desperate search for missing man in Lake Macquarie