Death of girl, 11, 'unexplained' after body found

An 11-year-old's death is being treated as unexplained by police who say they are investigating after her body was found in a Worcestershire park.

The girl was reported missing at about 23:20 BST on Sunday and she was later found in the park near the cricket ground in Elmley Castle, near Evesham, detectives said.

Inquiries were ongoing into the circumstances surrounding her death, a West Mercia Police spokesperson said.

Nearby residents were told by the force that there would be an increased police presence in the area as they investigate.

The girl's family were being supported by specially trained officers, said the force.

Her death was "deeply upsetting" for the community, said Ch Insp Daniel Pilkington.

"We are carrying out inquiries to fully understand the circumstances and provide her family with the answers they deserve," he added.

The small village, about four miles from Pershore, has a population of about 500, according to the parish council.

The castle it is named after, dating back to the 11th Century, is on the side of nearby Bredon Hill.

Pilkington said people should avoid speculating about what had happened.

"This is an incredibly difficult time for her family, and I would urge everyone to be mindful of the impact that speculation could have on them," he said.

"People may notice an increased police presence in Elmley Castle while these inquiries continue.

"I want to reassure residents that this is part of our work to establish exactly what has happened, and officers will also be available to speak to anyone in the community who has concerns."

The district councillor for Elmley Castle, Beverley Hardman, said: "You can't believe something like this would ever happen. My reaction was one of complete shock.

"The people of Elmley Castle do things for the community, it's a very proud area. They get on with people and work together.

"We don't know the background to this but whatever the cause, it's not going to take the pain away for the family."

Local resident Janet Kellitt added: "I'm really shocked, it's such a quiet, lovely area so you just don't expect anything like this.

"I just can't believe it.

"It's just shock and you just think it can't be in Elmley Castle - there's only a few of us here."

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