Police investigate garden at TW house

Search linked to a possible crime committed in the late 1950s in which a young woman died

Police have started a search for human remains in the garden of a house in Tunbridge Wells.

Officers have begun detailed forensic examination of the gardens of the three-bedroom semi-detached property in Rankine Road on the Sherwood estate after receiving intelligence relating to a possible crime committed in the late 1950s in which a young woman died.

The family living at the address are not connected in any way to the investigation. They have vacated the property while the work takes place.

Detective Inspector Lee Whitehead from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: “We are today beginning the search at 48 Rankine Road and I do not know at this time how long the search will take.

“We are focusing on this property after receiving information that human remains may be buried in the garden from a possible offence dating back to the late 1950s.

“It is important to see whether this piece of information will in fact lead us to a historical crime which was never reported to police at the time.’

Officers have received specialist assistance from the Home Office Scientific Development Branch and from forensic scientists working within the directorate.

A mobile police station will be sited in Rankine Road for the duration of the search.

This will be open during daylight hours for anyone who has any concerns or information which they think may help detectives with their inquiries.

Anyone with information can also speak direct with detectives at the Directorate on 01622 654863. Alternatively you can call Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.