The father of Noah Woods has described his three-year-old son as the "sweetest and most innocent little boy" following the heartbreaking discovery of a child's body.

Noah disappeared from a playground in Brantham, Suffolk, at approximately 3:00 PM BST on Tuesday, after becoming separated from a relative. The community rallied in a massive search effort, with over 1,300 people volunteering their time over the following 24 hours.

A child's body was discovered on Wednesday afternoon in a pond near the playground. Suffolk Police confirmed on Thursday that the body had been formally identified as Noah Woods. His father, Rhys Woods, expressed the profound pain of their loss, stating that no words could adequately describe it.

"This was the most heartbreaking outcome for us, we were just hoping that he would be hiding somewhere obvious where someone could find him," Rhys Woods said in a statement. He described Noah as having "nothing but love to give" and that the family would miss him "so very much."

The outpouring of support for the search was immense, with volunteers travelling from as far afield as Birmingham and Hampshire. Helicopters, dog units, and members of the public scoured the area close to the River Stour on the Suffolk-Essex border. Rhys Woods extended his gratitude to everyone who participated, acknowledging the significant impact Noah had made across the nation.

"You have all taken Noah into your own hearts, with all the overwhelming help, we were all just trying to bring him home to us safe and sound," he wrote on Facebook, thanking emergency services, local businesses, and individuals who dedicated their time. The compassion shown, he added, brought comfort and strength during their darkest time.

Suffolk Police have stated that Noah's death is not currently being treated as suspicious, but investigations are ongoing before a file is submitted to the coroner. Superintendent Tom Pearse thanked the family for their patience and understanding throughout the extensive search operations.

He also reiterated a plea for the family to be granted the time, space, and privacy they need during this "deeply distressing time," acknowledging the widespread goodwill and support Noah's family has received from across the country and beyond. The father concluded his tribute by addressing his son directly, calling it a "privilege to be your parents" and to have shared "so much love in the short three years you were with us."