Skull find dates from medieval times

THE first image of a skull discovered in a Warwickshire river has been released as police revealed they have at least partially resolved the mystery behind it.

Radiocarbon dating has now taken place of the partial human skull, which was found by the river Avon in Barford on the evening of Tuesday May 5.

Following the discovery Warwickshire Police revealed that a post mortem examination of the bones that were discovered - including part of a skull - confirmed that they were human.

The bones were examined by experts on Friday, May 15.

Further tests, including DNA testing and radiocarbon dating took place, in a bid to try to identify the deceased person.

In May a force spokesman said it was not possible to tell the sex of the person from the initial tests, or the age of the bones.

But now the tests carried out have revealed the skull dates from medieval times.

Detective Chief Inspector Caroline Corfield from Warwickshire Police said: “Specialist tests have now confirmed the skull - which was found by a member of the public - is from the medieval period of around 960-1150 AD.”

Following its discovery there was speculation the skull might be linked to a number of investigations - including the disappearance of missing Coventry mum Nicola Payne.

Nicola Payne’s family were advised over the discovery

Detective Chief Inspector Corfield added: “When the skull was originally discovered, we are aware there was some speculation that it could have been linked to a number of ongoing regional investigations. While we always maintained an open mind, it is now clear this is not the case and any families who were awaiting an update have been informed.”

The skull will now be used for forensic training purposes.

Barford is located around three miles south of Warwick and forms part of the Warwick district.