Agony for family as cops move remains
Wait for missing mum’s relatives
HUMAN remains found near a stately home are being removed by forensic specialists.
Police launched an investigation after the grisly find near the entrance of Gosford House by Longniddry, East Lothian, at the weekend.
Detectives are liaising with the family of missing mum Louise Tiffney as work continues to formally identify the remains.
The recovery process could take several days as police conduct a painstaking inquiry.
Louise disappeared from her home in Edinburgh in 2002 after a row with her son. Sean Flynn was accused of killing the 43-year-old but the case against him was found not proven.
A police source said: “Forensic experts are carrying out a painstaking investigation and this can be a lengthy process.
“We are aware families are waiting for news and do not wish to cause further distress but we must also carry out the recovery and subsequent identification with the upmost care and attention.
“While we have no formal identification, the early indications are we could be about to solve a long-standing disappearance.”
A member of the public made the grim discovery on Sunday night. That led to the closure of a section of the A198 between Links Road and Craigielaw.
Police said they are treating the death as unexplained. They said last night there was no update.
But Detective Superintendent Pat Campbell said on Tuesday: “We are consulting with a number of experts to ensure that the remains are recovered in a sensitive and careful manner and no evidence that helps us to establish what happened is damaged or missed.
“I understand the anxiety of those who may be waiting for news of a missing loved one, but while the identity of the remains is unknown we cannot speculate.
“I want to again reassure the public that when we have new information, we will act upon it and inform the next of kin of any person who is relevant to the investigation; this has been taking place and updates have been given.”
Area commander Chief Inspector Matt Paden added: “The discovery at the weekend has caused both curiosity and concern and my officers are available to speak to in the area, carrying out additional patrols.
“We are supporting the specialist teams involved in the recovery and the investigation, and we are committed to returning the area to normal as soon as our inquiries have finished.
“I’m very grateful for the support we have received from the local community and from the Gosford Estate.”