A man has been charged with murder after human remains, believed to be of 40-year-old Craig Hurcombe, were found

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The body of Craig Hurcombe was sadly discovered (Image: Avon and Somerset)

A man has been charged with murder following the discovery of a human remains in a Somerset village.

Michael Bretton, 40, was charged with murder and one count of stalking involving fear of violence against a woman, and will appear at court tomorrow.

It comes after human remains believed to be of 40-year-old from Wiltshire, were found in searches in the Roemead Road area of Gurney Slade.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Meade, said: “Our thoughts are with Craig’s family during this incredibly difficult time. They continue to receive support from specially-trained officers, and, on their behalf, we request privacy for them.

Police and forensics are seen on Galley Batch Lane at Pound Lane in Gurney Slade, Somerset

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Human remains believed to be of 40-year-old Craig Hurcombe from Wiltshire, were found in searches in the Roemead Road area of Gurney Slade(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach Plc)

“I would also like to thank them for their support with our enquiries so far. I would like to recognise the ongoing efforts of officers and staff from Avon and Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset who have been involved in this investigation, which has led to the Crown Prosecution Service authorising Bretton is charged with murder.

“While enquiries continue to be carried out in the area, we would like to reassure the community that we do not believe there is any risk to the public.”

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “A Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) page has been created for this investigation, to allow anyone with information or footage to report it to us via our website: Public Portal.

“A mandatory referral is being made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) on the grounds of a death occurring following previous police contact.”