Woman's body found in woods

Woman's body found in woods

The remains were discovered in a wood

Police have discovered a woman's remains in woodland south of Aberdeen.

It is believed the body may be that of Jessie Masson, who went missing from her home in the city at the end of last year.

The remains were discovered on Monday evening in a wood near Banchory, in Aberdeenshire.

Grampian Police said there was a "strong possibility" that the body is that of the 48-year-old.

She went missing from her niece's home in the Kincorth area of the city in November.

Although enquiries are continuing, it is too early to say if the body is that of Mrs Masson due to the passage of time since her disappearance

Detective Inspector Ian Birnie

A widespread search was launched and included forces in London, Merseyside, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.

A spokesman for Grampian Police said a walker came across the remains and guided police to the site.

The spokesman said: "It is expected that a post-mortem examination will be carried out today and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal."

Detective Inspector Ian Birnie of Grampian Police said: "Although enquiries are continuing, it is too early to say if the body is that of Mrs Masson due to the passage of time since her disappearance."

"In the meantime, while there is nothing at this stage to indicate the death was suspicious, we have to keep an open mind."