Mystery after unmarked grave appears in church yard

An unmarked mystery grave has appeared in a church yard in Hertfordshire.

The well-tended plot was discovered in the graveyard of the Old Church of St James in Roydon Road, Stanstead Abbotts.

The grave was was reported to police on Monday (April 3), however it is believed it may have been in situ since September last year.

Police are currently trying to work out the age of the bones found in the grave and identify the person who has been tending the plot, which has been well kept.

Detective Inspector Anna Borella said: “The church is only used around four times a year, but we know that people regularly visit the graveyard.

"We are appealing to anyone who has seen someone visit the mystery grave or who has information which may help us identify it, to contact us.

“The grave is situated close to the church and there are no graves directly next to it, so anyone visiting may stand out.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101.

Alternatively you can contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.