Photographs show police activity in a rural part of Somerset this afternoon (Thursday, January 15) after human remains were found during the search for a missing man.
Avon and Somerset Police said it made the grisly discovery in the Gurney Slade area late last night (Wednesday).
While formal identification has yet to take place, the family of 40-year-old Craig Hurcombe have been made aware of the findings and are being supported by officers.
Craig was last seen in the Gurney Slade area around 6.20pm on New Year's Day.
He was reported as missing at 10.45am on Saturday, January 10, to Wiltshire Police.
The investigation was handed to Avon and Somerset Police on Monday, January 12, and a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of murder.
At the time of reporting, he remains in police custody.
Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector Andy Pritchard said: “The family of Craig Hurcombe have been informed of the discovery, and it is impossible to comprehend the pain they will be feeling.
"Our thoughts are with them, and we will continue to provide them with updates and support through our specially-trained officers.
“We ask people to respect Craig’s loved ones’ privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
“The Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) are leading on this investigation and will continue to work through the day and night to establish the facts of this case.
"The formal identification process has not yet been completed, and a post-mortem examination will also be conducted in due course.
“There will be an increased police presence in the area in the coming days, and we urge anyone with concerns to please speak to us, however we’d like to reassure people we are not aware of there being any increased risk to public safety.
“We will continue to provide updates to the public as our investigation progresses.”
Photographs in Galley Batch Lane show police vehicles, a white tent and officers wearing forensics gear.
Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage to contact the force.