Manhunt by missing Tia Police

In a press conference by police investigating the case of missing Tia Sharp, a spokesman said that when she first went missing officers searched her bedroom. A further search took place on Sunday and another search on Wednesday.

The task now is to find out where the body was found and how long it had been in place. He says it would 'be wrong to jump to conclusions without first finding out the facts.'

Gavin Barwell, MP for Croydon Central has issued a statement following the 'tragic news' that a body has been found in the search for Tia Sharp.

Mr Barwell said:

"Tragic news has just reached me that police have discovered a body in Tia Sharp’s grandmother’s house.

"The police have yet to formally confirm that the body is Tia’s yet this devastating development will come as a huge blow to her family and the community in New Addington, all of whom have worked tirelessly to try to find her over the past week.

"The police and forensic teams now have a serious job to do and I ask that we all please allow them to get on with trying to close a case which has, in such a short period of time, affected so many of us in Croydon and around the country.

"Despite the sad end to an emotional week I want to praise the community in New Addington for their relentless dedication to trying to help their neighbour’s family. So often in times of tragedy come inspirational displays of community.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sharp family, the community of New Addington and everyone affected by this tragedy."

Mark Williams-Thomas, the criminologist who interviewed Stuart Hazell for ITV News yesterday, has taken to Twitter to comment on the news that body has been found in the house:

Locals, who had congregated near the scene during the day, grew in number as news broke of the body's discovery. They expressed their horror at the news. Police have not formally identified the body and a post mortem will be carried out.

Alston Millington, 32, said:

"Personally, I was hoping she had a bit of trouble at home and had run off, rebelling against the family maybe. I was hoping she would be found somewhere with somebody...

It is very hard to get out of Addington without being seen in either a car, tram or bus. It is such sad news. I live just around the corner and can't believe it. I think it's disgusting. Everybody around here knew she wasn't far from the house. It makes me sick."

Police hunting for missing 12-year-old Tia Sharp have found a body at her grandmother's house. Scotland Yard say a murder inquiry has been launched following a search of the property this afternoon.

Police are also looking for Tia's grandmother's partner Stuart Hazell and warn the public not to approach him.

Police have not formally identified the body and a post mortem will be carried out.

Forensic officers in boiler suits have entered Tia Sharp's grandmother's house in New Addington, Croydon, South London.