'My thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones' - Local MP tells of shock after human remains discovered in Northern Ireland river

The remains were ‘discovered in a river in the Ballyrobert Road area of Crawfordsburn on Saturday, 7th June’.

A police source added that ‘it is believed that the remains, which have been removed from the scene, had been in situ for some time’.

And it has been confirmed that enquiries are ongoing.

A PSNI spoesman added that a post-mortem examination and formal identification will be carried out in due course.

North Down MP Alex Easton said he was "deeply saddened to learn of the discovery of human remains in the Crawfordsburn area over the weekend” adding that his “thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones affected by this deeply distressing development”.

"I would urge anyone who may have any information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist the police with their enquiries,” he added.

"It is vital that the PSNI are given the full support of the community as they work to establish the facts and bring clarity to this tragic situation.

"At this difficult time, I ask everyone to allow the investigation to proceed with sensitivity and respect for the family involved.”

And North Down DUP MLA Stephen Dunne said: “This is deeply distressing news for the local community.

"My thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased at this very difficult time.

“It's important that the relevant authorities are given the space and time they need to carry out their enquiries.

"If anyone has any information that could assist, I encourage them to contact the PSNI directly”.