Michael Bretton charged with murder

A man has been charged with murder after the remains of another man were found in the Somerset countryside.

Avon and Somerset Police officers had been searching for Craig Hurcombe, 40, after he was last seen in Gurney Slade at about 18:20 GMT on 1 January.

Human remains believed to be his were found in the area on Wednesday evening and Michael Bretton, 40 – who had been arrested on Monday in connection with Mr Hurcombe’s disappearance – has now been charged with his murder.

Bretton, of Shaftesbury in Dorset, has also been charged with one count of stalking involving fear of violence against a woman.

Police said Mr Hurcombe was reported missing at 10:45 GT on 10 January, nine days after last being seen.

Det Ch Insp Neil Meade, of Avon and Somerset Police, 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. I would also like to thank them for their support with our enquiries so far.”

He thanked Wiltshire and Dorset Police for their part in the investigation, adding: “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.”

Avon and Somerset Police has said that due to the circumstances of the investigation, it has notified its Professional Standards Department.