Remains discovered in undergrowth

The cause of death is not yet known

Human remains have been discovered on a large piece of overgrown private land in Gloucestershire.

The body, found in undergrowth near the B4063 in Staverton, is thought to have been there for some years.

A Home Office pathologist is now helping police establish the identity of the deceased and the cause of death.

An early assessment of the skeleton suggests the individual was over the age of 25 and between 5ft 7in and 5ft 11in tall.

A Gloucestershire Police spokeswoman said the skeleton was found by a local family.

Coroner informed

"A family member made the discovery on Saturday afternoon (May 10) whilst clearing the undergrowth.

"He contacted police immediately, who have conducted a detailed forensic examination of the scene over the last few days.

"The police are also working with the Missing Persons Bureau and making inquiries with the clothing manufacturers of the items the person was wearing at the time of their death.

"The coroner has been informed and the remains moved to the mortuary."

Investigating officers are not ruling out the possibility the victim was murdered.