Inquiry after human remains wash up on coast

An investigation is under way after human remains washed up at two locations on the north Devon coastline.

Devon and Cornwall Police officers were informed initially of what appeared to be human remains on Westward Ho! beach in Bideford at about 09:30 BST on Thursday.

Officers were then notified of further suspected remains being found on the coastline at Appledore.

Both sets of remains had been recovered for identification, said police.

The force said there would be an increased police presence along the coast between the two locations, and asked people to avoid posting images on social media if they spotted "anything concerning".

Insp Ewan Seear said: "Formal identification has yet to take place and as such, we are unable to confirm if both remains relate to the same individual.

"Both sets of remains are still unidentified at this time.

"We are asking people not to speculate online following yesterday's events and in the event of any further discoveries to call us on 999.

"I'd like to offer some reassurance that there is no risk to the local community and the public may see an increased police presence along the coastline as investigation work is carried out."

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