Greater Manchester Police detectives have launched a murder investigation after the discovery of human remains on a nature reserve in Salford.

Police were called yesterday evening to reports of an "unknown item wrapped in plastic" having been found by a member of the public on Kersal Dale, near to Radford Street, Salford.

A pathologist and detectives from Salford attended the scene and confirmed that the item found was human remains.

The nature of the discovered remains have not been revealed by police.

But advice from pathologists to police has confirmed that it would not have been possible for the victim to have survived.

As a result of that expert advice, a murder investigation has now been launched and a Major Incident Team is leading that inquiry.

A police spokesman said that due to the nature of the location, a secluded large woodland area, an extensive crime scene has been put in place while enquiries continue to establish the full circumstances behind the discovery.

No arrests have been made as yet.

Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes from GMP’s Serious Crime Division said: “I want to assure the local community that although this is a disturbing and unsettling find, we have a large visible presence in the area to complete enquiries, provide reassurance and to listen to any concerns.

"I encourage anyone who may have relevant information to speak to these officers.

“A large scene is now in place, and is likely to remain for some time, whilst we work to unravel what exactly has happened here. The area is closed to members of the public.

“The victim has not yet been identified, but we know that behind this discovery there will be a family who have lost a loved one, and we want to make sure they are supported as quickly as possible.

“Anyone who thinks they may have witnessed something suspicious in the Kersal Dale area over the last few days, could be key to unlocking what happened. I would ask that anyone who has any information that may be relevant to our enquiries, no matter how big or small, comes forward by calling 101.

“Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

The area around the Kersal Wetlands remains closed off and the public are being warned to stay away.