A CORONER has recorded an open verdict on the death of 66-year-old Malcolm Brown, whose body was discovered in the River Nene near Wisbech Yacht Harbour last November.

Cambs Times: Mrs Brown made an emotional plea for her husband's return.Mrs Brown made an emotional plea for her husband's return. (Image: Archant)

Mr Brown, commonly known as Mac, went missing after leaving his home in Falklands Drive in Wisbech at about 6.30pm on October 23 2012. His body was found 24 days later.

Cambs Times: Mr Brown with his wife Annette.Mr Brown with his wife Annette. (Image: Archant)

An inquest into his death was heard by North and East Cambridgeshire coroner William Morris at Wisbech Boathouse earlier today.

After Mr Brown went missing, his wife Annette issued an emotional plea for his return, saying: “I just want you to know that I love you to bits.”

At the time of his disappearance, PC Lorna Owen, from Cambridgeshire Police’s missing persons department, said: “We are concerned about Malcolm because his disappearance is out of character.

“He left on foot with little money, no phone or extra clothing for cold weather and has made no contact with family or friends.”

While Mr Brown’s whereabouts was unknown, wife Annette spent many nights sitting by the window of their home with the front door open, in the hope that he would return, and said: “It feels as if the house has had its heart ripped out of it. “I just want him to walk back in here and be at home with me.

“I never ever dreamt this would happen. It is so out of character.”