A quiet churchyard in North Yorkshire has become the centre of a major police investigation after workmen made a grisly discovery: human bones concealed within a bag buried in the cemetery grounds.
The shocking find occurred at St Mary's Church in Sledmere, near Driffield, where contractors carrying out maintenance work unearthed the suspicious package containing human remains.
Police Launch Major Investigation
Humberside Police have confirmed they are treating the discovery as suspicious and have launched a full-scale investigation. Forensic teams have been deployed to the scene, cordoning off the area while they conduct meticulous examinations.
Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Dickinson stated: "We are in the very early stages of our investigation and are working to establish the circumstances surrounding this discovery. The bones have been sent for specialist forensic analysis to determine identification and cause of death."
Community in Shock
The peaceful village of Sledmere, known for its historic estate and tranquil countryside setting, has been shaken by the macabre discovery. Local residents expressed their disbelief that such a find could occur in their quiet community.
One parishioner, who wished to remain anonymous, told reporters: "This is normally such a peaceful place. To think someone buried human remains here is absolutely horrifying. Everyone's talking about it."
Historical Context Adds Mystery
St Mary's Church stands on the Sledmere Estate, which has been home to the Sykes family for generations. The church itself dates back to the 1890s, adding another layer of mystery to the modern-day crime scene.
Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward, particularly those who may have noticed suspicious activity in or around the churchyard in recent weeks or months.
DCI Dickinson added: "We're conducting house-to-house enquiries and reviewing CCTV from the area. We're also keen to hear from anyone who may have information, no matter how insignificant it may seem."
The investigation continues as forensic experts work to identify the remains and determine how long they had been buried at the location.
