First photo of woman after remains found in Croydon Park

Detectives investigating human remains found in a Croydon park have released a photograph of the victim.

Scotland Yard said the family of Sarah Mayhew, 38, from Croydon, south London, had been informed of her death and were currently being supported by family liaison officers.

A 44-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman were arrested on Saturday on suspicion of Ms Mayhew’s murder and both remain in custody.

An investigation was launched last Tuesday after officers received reports of possible human remains found on Croydon’s Rowdown Fields.

DI Martin Thorpe, who is leading the murder investigation, said: “My thoughts are with Sarah’s family as they deal with this heartbreaking news. No family should have to lose a loved one in such tragic circumstances and we will continue to offer our support as our investigation progresses.

“The two people in custody were known to Sarah and we are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with her death.”

Sup. Chf Andy Brittain, Chief Constable of Croydon, added: “Whilst I hope these updates will provide some reassurance to the local community, we are aware of the understandable concern this incident has caused in New Addington.

“Your local police teams will continue to be visible and available to discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have as best we can. We reiterate our thanks for the public’s support and patience, which allowed officers to carry out important inquiries at the scene.”

Searches were later carried out in the area near New Addington, involving police forensics and dog teams, with a large cordon instead of days.

Locals expressed their shock at the discovery. Matthew Popoola said: “It’s really shocking to hear that there were human remains here.” Sam Urquhart, 52, added: “No one expects body parts to be found, do they?”

Matthew Popoola, who lives locally, said of the discovery: “It’s pretty barbaric. It’s not really a normal thing in this area.”

Anyone with information that could help the investigation and who has not yet spoken to police is asked to call 101, quoting reference 1656/02 Apr.