HUMAN remains found on Red Moss were discovered by contractors working on the nature reserve, it has emerged.

The Bolton News reported yesterday how police had taped off a large part of the popular site in Horwich after bones were found there

Officers said they had no update on the grim discovery and investigations were continuing after they were called at around 3pm on Monday.

The contractors were working on behalf of the Lancashire Wildlife Trust.

Residents in the area were also out walking when they saw the cordon deep in the wooded area.

Human bones discovered in Red Moss Nature Reserve

A spokesman for Lancashire Wildlife Trust said: “It was a shock to us and it really is very sad news that human remains have been found in Red Moss.

“We stopped our work immediately when we found out and will wait until the investigation is closed.”

A spokesman for Bolton Council said: "We are aware of the discovery and will assist Greater Manchester Police with their investigation."

In a statement issued following the discovery, Greater Manchester Police said: "Police were called just before 3pm to an area close to Aspinall Way, Future Park, Horwich, to a report of bones having being discovered.

"The bones have since been confirmed as human and enquiries are currently ongoing. A scene remains in place."

Red Moss is a wetland mossland and a national site of special scientific interest.

This is not the first time remains have been found there.

In 1943 a mummified head of a teenage girl with red plaits was discovered at the location.