Woodland Bodies Are Missing Girls
Police say they are as certain as possible that two bodies found in remote woodland are those of missing schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman.The girls' parents have been told the news, said Cambridgeshire Deputy Chief Constable Keith Hoddy.But he added that it may be some days before the two bodies can be positively identified.The bodies are to be taken from the scene near RAF Lakenheath to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge for further forensic examination.
Extension
The girls' parents have also issued statements describing the "traumatic time" they are going through and thanking everyone for their support.
Police have been granted an extra 36 hours to question school caretaker Ian Huntley and ex-classroom assistant Maxine Carr in connection with the abduction and murder of the 10-year-olds.
The pair will continue to be quizzed by detectives who were given an extension by magistrates at "two separate closed hearings".
Speaking in front of St Andrew's church in Soham, Mr Hoddy said: "It is with great sadness that I have to tell you the following news.
"It may be some days yet before we are able to positively identify the two bodies found at Common Drove, near Lakenheath in Suffolk, yesterday lunchtime.
'Terrible news'
"However, we are as certain as we possibly can be tonight that they are those of Holly and Jessica. Holly and Jessica's families have been told this terrible news.
Jessica's parents, Sharon and Leslie Chapman, said: "We would like to thank everybody for their kindness and support during this very tense and traumatic time, especially family, friends and the family liaison officers,"
Holly's parents, Nicola and Kevin Wells, said in their statement: "Although still numb after losing our gorgeous daughter Holly, please accept our heartfelt thanks for everyone's help and support throughout this traumatic fortnight."
Fenland shrine
The bodies were found on Saturday about seven miles from where the youngsters were last seen exactly two weeks ago.
Scenes of crime officers worked through the night under arc lights to scour the surrounding area, hunting for the tiniest clues that might be crucial in any court case.
More bouquets have been placed near the scene, with a small white signpost becoming a fenland shrine to Jessica and Holly.
One message read: "To the two Soham angels, may your wings take you to a better place."
The disturbing thought is why cannot these children be ID'd now..what has been done to them?
