The body of a man found in the River Medway has today been confirmed as missing teenage soldier Josh Thomas.

Kent Police said the 18-year-old sapper (pictured right) was pulled from the water near Rochester Pier yesterday - almost three weeks after he disappeared.

A spokesman said: "Officers are not treating the death as suspicious and a report has been prepared for the coroner."

A large-scale search for the soldier, who was based at Brompton Barracks, was launched after he vanished on a night out in the town early on Wednesday, April 10.

The huge operation saw police trudge through the mud banks and marshes of the River Medway using a boat, helicopter and the Army's help.

However, his body was not discovered until a member of the public called the emergency services on Monday afternoon.

A spokesman for the Royal School of Military Engineering Regiment said specially-trained officers are supporting Josh's family.

He added: "The regiment is devastated at the loss of this bright young soldier, and the thoughts of everyone at Chatham Station go out to his family and friends."

A post left on the Facebook group Help Find Josh Thomas early this morning read: "It is with deep regret that we must post that the body found in the river by Rochester Pier is sadly that of Josh Thomas. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, comrades and friends.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has assisted in the search for Josh and appreciate how hard this news will be on some.

"At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember this outstanding young man who was such an inspiration to others. Rest in Peace Josh."

Police and coastguard crews at Rochester Pier after Josh's body was found

More than 4,000 people, many of whom never met Josh, had joined the group as fears grew for his safety.

Hundreds of people left touching messages to him on the Facebook page - which today changed its picture to an image bearing the words: "In the arms of angels. RIP Josh."

Friends spoke of how a "much-loved young man" had been "taken from his family far too early".

Damien Isaak posted: "One brave soldier, remarkable man, wonderful son and a loyal friend. May you rest in peace."

Hundreds of people posted messages of condolence on Facebook

Fellow soldiers also used social media sites to pay tribute to Josh.

Ben Sohal said on Twitter: "R.I.P Josh Thomas, you was a good solider and my best of friends, the worst always happens to the best, thoughts with friends and family."

Another who served alongside him at Brompton Barracks was Dean Stephenson, who said: "Absolutely gutted, privilege to work with you xx."

And Nate Ruess said: "Can't believe the body found in the river was Josh Thomas'. He was a funny guy, always up for going on."

Police taped off the entrance to Rochester Pier after a body was found (below)

Josh had been drinking heavily with friends at the City Wall bar, in Rochester High Street, on the night of Tuesday April 9 after finishing exams.

Police said he left very drunk and walked on to Rochester Bridge before doubling back.

He was last seen on CCTV at 1am crossing the A2 outside The Crown pub.

Parents of the teen's friends put up posters in Rochester High Street in a bid to trace witnesses.

Friends of Josh Thomas posted witness appeals around Rochester

Josh's father Gary travelled from his home town of Neath, South Wales, to help with the appeal.

Before Josh's body was found, the 53-year-old said: "It is totally out of character for him. He was doing so well and it's just tragic what's happened."

Strood firm Chapel Press even printed 10,000 flyers and 1,500 posters for free, to put up in hundreds of shops, buses and taxis.

The Medway Coastguard team and the RNLI inshore lifeboat crew joined police on the river at about 12.45pm on Monday after the report of a person in the water near the pier, on The Esplanade.

Police officers and the marine unit were then dispatched to help with the recovery of the body of Josh (pictured right).

A gate at the entrance to the jetty taped off by police and an officer stood guard.

A crew from South East Coast Ambulance Service was also spotted at the scene and several police officers at the bottom of the pier.

An inquest is now due to be opened and adjourned after a report is prepared for the coroner by Kent Police officers.