One of Paul Swain's brothers is likely to travel to Malta this week to meet the authorities and bring the 49-year-old's body home.

Mr Swain, an engineer and part-time diving instructor, went missing two weeks ago while exploring a sunken former ferry, the Xendi, just off the island of Gozo.

He had travelled to Malta with eight members of the Sub Aqua Sports Association, based in South Hetton.

Mr Swain was last seen exploring the cafeteria area of the ship, but is believed to have become disorientated when silt was disturbed in the wreck, making it impossible for him to find his way out.

After two separate searches of the vessel by the Civil Protection Department (CPD), a body was found on Saturday.

Mr Swain lived in the Low Grange area of Billingham with his long-term fiancée Louise Walsh.

His father, Tom Swain, from Greatham, said the family was devastated.

He added: "We are trying to sort out who is going to go to Malta. It's very difficult, but at least we know we are going to have him back home now. It's bad when we haven't got anyone to grieve over or have a funeral for."

He said the family hoped they would find out exactly what happened to Paul, an experienced diver.