Birmingham City FC has paid tribute to missing fan Paul Pike, who disappeared after attending a match in Derby, after a body was found during the search.

Paul Pike, who has autism and ADHD, went missing after watching Birmingham City's match against Derby at Pride Park last Saturday (March 21).

It was believed that the 18-year-old’s last known location was on the path near the River Derwent.

Police have been searching undergrowth and have found items believed to belong to Paul - with people from the local area in Derby and Birmingham residents travelling up to join the search.

At around 10.30am yesterday (March 29), officers found a body during the search. Paul’s family have been made aware.

Following the tragic news, Paul’s beloved Blues have paid tribute to him in a post on social media.

Officers involved in the search found items believed to belong to Paul in the vicinity of the path running next to Pride Park.

placeholder image — Officers involved in the search found items believed to belong to Paul in the vicinity of the path running next to Pride Park.

It read: “Everyone at the Club is deeply saddened by today’s news about one of our own, Paul Pike. We are grateful to all those—both in Derby and back here in Birmingham—who gave their time and support during the search in recent days, including both West Midlands and Derbyshire Police, who have been working tirelessly in the background.

“The compassion shown reflects the very best of our footballing community. Our thoughts and condolences are with Paul’s family, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”

Other football fans left messages of condolence to the family in the comments. One wrote: “ Fly High Paul love to the family, the football family sticks together during times like these, so touching to all supporters out there looking for Paul in Birmingham and Derby. We will all celebrate during 18 mins whether the club announces it or not. KRO.”

Another added: “Should never lose a football family at such a young age, thoughts are with you, Cov fan x.”

Meanwhile, a third commented: “Can we pls do a round of applause on the 18th min on Fri as a mark of respect pls for Paul and his family! Also the derby volunteers who organised the search are coming to our home game Fri they need some kind of appreciation for what that have done the last week .”

Derbyshire Police have said “the death is not being treated as suspicious and there is not believed to be any third-party involvement” and confirmed a file is being prepared for the coroner.