Girl, 10, found murdered in wood

Lauren's grandfather found her body in woods near her home

A murder inquiry is under way after a missing 10-year-old girl was found dead yards from her home.

Lauren Pilkington-Smith's body was found by her grandfather in a wood near her home in Twist Lane, Leigh, Greater Manchester, early on Friday.

Her family had been searching for her with police and members of the public since she went missing on Thursday.

Lauren's family became concerned when she did not return home after playing with friends.

Her body was found in a wooded area by Sanderson Street, 200 yards (183m) from her home and close to the banks of the Bridgewater Canal.

Our world has collapsed in the last 24 hours and we can't even begin to think what we will do without her Lauren's parents

Det Supt Andy Tattersall, who is leading the investigation, said: "We don't yet know exactly how Lauren died, but we have cordoned off the spot where her body was found and officers are currently at the scene working to recover any forensic evidence from the area.

"Lauren's death is a tragic incident and our thoughts and sympathies are with her friends and family."

Supt Shaun Curry said: "She was killed out in the open and she was found in suspicious circumstances.

"Her body was found in thick undergrowth, dense with bushes and trees, and it is taking a long time to secure the forensic evidence."

He added since Lauren's death the police had received one or two reports of suspicious strangers seen in the area, but said there was no indication that this was connected with the murder.

Tributes

Lauren's mother, Alison Pilkington-Smith, and father, Glen Smith, paid tribute to their "beautiful, lovely little girl".

"Our world has collapsed in the last 24 hours and we can't even begin to think what we will do without her," they added.

"Lauren was a tomboy who loved playing with her friends.

"Everyone around here loved her. She was football-mad and a huge Manchester United fan. She loved playing golf and riding her BMX."

Her parents are now comforting Lauren's sister Rebecca, 15, brother Sam, four, and two-and-a-half-year-old Ciara.

Lauren's headteacher called Lauren "a happy, popular and successful pupil"

Leigh Church of England Junior School held a special assembly in tribute to Lauren.

Headteacher Brian Fawcett said: "Lauren was a happy, popular and successful pupil in our Year Six age group and our sincere condolences and love are extended to Lauren's family.

"The children are being lovingly supported by our vicar and officers from the local education authority."

A post-mortem examination is due to be held.