Body of missing prospector Ronald Potter found

Search crews have found the body of an elderly prospector missing in WA's Goldfields.

The search was launched yesterday for 86-year-old Ronald Potter, who was last seen in Coolgardie a week ago.

His body was found this evening and police say Mr Potter's death is not suspicious.

Earlier today 9News made it to his bogged vehicle in bushland outside the town, where we discovered shovels and clear attempts by someone to free the car.

Eerily, an empty water container was also left at the scene but there was no sign of Mr Potter.

The retired council worker and train station manager had lived in the Goldfields for decades and was an experienced prospector.

Close friend and neighbour Jim Buckingham said he reported Mr Potter missing when he didn't return from a prospecting trip.

"I'm very worried, but I'm hopeful that something happens where he's found alive," Mr Buckingham said before the body was found.

"It's about all we can ask for and I hope that you're alive."

Mr Potter's relatives joined the search today, which included more than 30 police and SES volunteers and a search plane.