THE skeleton of a baby has been found underneath a home’s floorboards in a grim discovery.
Contractors who were renovating a property on Fore Bondgate in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, found the body at around 11.15am on Monday.
It is believed the remains were located underneath the floor of an upstairs room.
Durham Constabulary have confirmed the skeleton was due to be removed on Tuesday and a full search of the building will be carried out.
Forensic analysts including an expert anthropologist have been brought in to examine the body to help determine its age and how long it has been there.
A post-mortem examination and CT scan are scheduled for later this week to determine the cause of death with detectives now tracing previous residents of the home.
A full statement from the Force said: “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 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.”
