Remains are confirmed as missing Briton

HUMAN remains found in a well in Crete are those of a British holidaymaker who went missing more than a decade ago, police have confirmed.

Steven Cook, then 20, disappeared on a night out in Malia with friends in 2005 – the first holiday he had taken without his family.

Despite appeals on UK and Greek television, Mr Cook, from Sandbach, Cheshire, was never found.

However, Cheshire Police yesterday said the human remains, which were discovered in a well in Malia earlier this month, had been tested and confirmed as Mr Cook’s.

Detective Inspector Gary McIntyre said: “On February 16 Cheshire Constabulary was made aware of the discovery of human remains in a well in Malia.

“Since then, officers have been in close liaison with the Greek authorities.

“Tests have been carried out and we have now received confirmation from the Greek authorities that the remains belong to Steven Cook, who went missing on September 1, 2005 during a holiday to the island.

“Steven’s family have been kept fully updated on the developments and are being supported by Cheshire officers. They have been provided with support since Steven first went missing and this will continue over the coming weeks.”

Mr McIntyre said the force’s priority was to ensure Mr Cook’s remains were flown home to the UK as soon as possible.