Gloucester cafe sealed off after ‘significant discovery’ linked to Fred West
The horrors of Fred West are once again haunting Gloucester, ITV News Midlands Correspondent Ben Chapman reports
Police have sealed off a cafe in Gloucester after new evidence suggested a body linked to killer Fred West may be buried inside.
Officers will be based at The Clean Plate Cafe in Southgate Street for a “number of weeks” while searches are carried out.
It comes after a production company filming a documentary at the building - which has been linked to the disappearance of Mary Bastholm - said they had found possible evidence suggesting a body had been buried on site.
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Ms Bastholm was just 15-years-old when she was reported missing in January 1968, and her disappearance has been previously linked to serial killer West.
Assistant Chief Constable Craig Holden said the discovery could be a “significant development” in the case.
"This could be a significant development on a case which has gained a lot of public interest over the years,” he said.
"First and foremost our thoughts are with Mary’s family and we would ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.
Video from the scene in Gloucester (credit: BPM Media)
"This news may understandably alarm those who work near to the premises, as well as those in the wider Gloucester community and beyond.
"The Constabulary has always said any fresh evidence would be reviewed. This has happened and a focussed and proportionate investigation will now take place.”
Anyone who has any new information relating to the disappearance of Mary Bastholm can report this to Gloucestershire Constabulary here.
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