Forensic examinations of two Wiltshire churchyard sites finish today

Forensic examinations taking place in the churchyards of St Andrew’s Church in Collingbourne Ducis and at St Mary’s Church in Collingbourne Kingston are set to draw to a close today (20th October 2021).

The work, which was carried out by a forensic archaeologist – in partnership with CID and CSI, was prompted following the discovery of some human bones in the topsoil of each of the sites. There also appeared to be a headstone missing from a grave in Collingbourne Ducis.

Following a thorough examination of both sites, it has been concluded that there was no cause for further investigation and that the soil disturbance was a natural occurrence – and the missing headstone has been located.

Throughout this investigation, the police have been working closely with church representatives and families whose relatives have been buried near the search areas.

Detective Inspector Dean Garvin of Wiltshire Police CID said, “We initiated this assessment following reports of unusual finds at these sites. It was important to take these concerns seriously.

“However, based on the findings of these forensic examinations, we are now satisfied that there was no suspicious activity that requires further investigation.

I would like to thank members of the public for their patience while this work was carried out“.