Investigation after workmen discover baby's body

Contractors working on a property renovation in Bishop Auckland have discovered what appears to be human remains.

The skeleton of a baby was found beneath floorboards in an upstairs room at an address in Fore Bondgate at approximately 11.15am on Monday.

The body is being recovered from the building this afternoon and police teams will then carry out a full search of the property.

Forensic analysts, including an expert anthropologist, have been brought in to examine the skeleton to help determine its age and how long it has been in the current location.

A post mortem examination and CT scan are scheduled for later this week to determine the cause of death.

Detectives from Durham Constabulary have also begun tracing previous residents of the property.

Detective Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland, from Durham Constabulary, said: “Our investigations are at an early stage.

“Obviously, this is a sensitive enquiry and at this point we remain open-minded as to the circumstances surrounding the death”.