Police probe after 'skeletal remains' found by A617

Police have launched an investigation after suspected human skeletal remains were found in woodland by the A617 in Nottinghamshire.

Nottinghamshire Police set up a cordon shortly before 15:00 BST on Saturday, after the remains were discovered by members of the public near Rainworth Bypass.

Forensic teams remained at the scene on Sunday, and one lane of the eastbound carriageway was coned off.

Det Insp Matt Scott said: "Whilst the investigation is still in its early stages, following inquiries carried out so far, I can confirm that the remains we have found are believed to be of one person."

Scott said he understood a report of this nature "will likely cause concern among the community", but he offered his reassurance that the incident "poses no risk to public safety".

He added: "The identity of this person is yet to be established, but a dedicated team of officers are working to confirm this as soon as possible."

He said officers were carrying out those lines of inquiries to help them better understand the circumstances of how the body came to be there and gather more information about the death.

"Any discovery of human remains is taken extremely seriously," he said.

"A thorough investigation is being carried out and we are keeping an open mind at this time.

"It is important for me to stress that this is also likely to take us some time yet. There will still be a scene remaining that will be guarded by police officers for a number of days while our work continues.

"As our investigation progresses over the Bank Holiday weekend and into next week, residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area.

"I would encourage anyone with any concerns to please come and speak to us. We would like to thank the public for their patience."