02 January 2023 , 13:08
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Human remains have been discovered in a woodland pond next to a hospital after police received reports of "a suspicious object in the water".
The person was found in the Oakwood Pond, known locally as a haven for wildlife, just yards from Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Essex.
Police divers had been searching the pond since around 2pm on New Year's Eve.
Teams of white-suited forensic officers have been seen searching the surrounding woodland since the discovery.
No description of the person, or whether they are a man, woman or child has been released by the police.
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An investigation with Essex and Kent Serious Crime Directorate is underway and early enquiries are ongoing, officers said.
The area has been cordoned off (Essex Police)Detective Chief Inspector Antony Alcock of Essex Police added: "It's the really early stages of this investigation and we are working to determine what has happened.
"I understand that this is concerning news for local residents, and our officers are likely to remain in the area for the next few days to continue enquiries.
Oakwood Pond in Essex (Harlow Council)"We ask that the public respect the cordons in place and we will be updating the public as the investigation develops."
The pond which is around 80 yards long and 30 yards wide was restored in an £80,000 project in 2017.
Essex Police are appealing for information, and asking for help from anyone with relevant CCTV, dash cam or other footage.
Anyone with information should call police on 101.