Two bodies have been found in a crashed car by police searching for two men reported missing by their families more than a week ago.

Lancashire Police said William Hutchinson, 31, was last seen on 24 June in Preston, while Stuart Tallis, 27, was reported missing three days later in the city.

Police found two bodies in a blue Peugeot 106 at midday on Saturday off the A584 Preston New Road in Newton-with-Clifton.

The force said the car was found by specialist officers “hidden from view” and “in thick undergrowth” off the westbound carriageway.

Officers have appealed for witnesses who saw the car just before it crashed at 05:30 BST on 24 June and have also asked for drivers to check any dashcam footage.

A police spokesperson said: “Whilst formal identification is yet to take place, we believe we have found William and Stuart.

“Their loved ones are aware of the extremely upsetting development and our thoughts are with them at this distressing time.

“They are being supported by specially-trained officers.”

Sgt Martin Wilcock said: “Two men have lost their lives in what appears to be extremely tragic circumstances, and my thoughts are very much with their loved ones at this sad time.”

They have also asked for drivers to check any dashcam footage.