Human remains found in a park in south London have been identified as belonging to a woman, the Metropolitan Police have announced today.

Officers were called to Croydon's Rowdown Fields shortly after 9am on April 2 to reports of possible human remains that had been found at the scene. The family of Sarah Mayhew, 38, from Croydon, have since been informed of her death.

The Metropolitan Police said a 44-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman, who were arrested on Saturday on suspicion of Ms Mayhew’s murder, remain in custody pending further inquiries.

Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts are with Sarah’s family as they deal with this heartbreaking news. No family should have to lose a loved one in such tragic circumstances, and we will continue to provide our support as our investigation progresses. The two people in custody were known to Sarah and at present we are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.”

Police at the scene in Rowdown Fields, Croydon (
Image:
PA)

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, lead for policing in Croydon, added: “While I hope these updates will offer some reassurance to the local community, we are aware of the understandable concern this incident has caused across New Addington.

“Your local policing teams will continue to be visible and available to discuss your concerns, and answer any questions you may have as best we can. We repeat our thanks for the support and patience of the public, which has allowed officers to carry out important enquiries at the scene.”

An investigation was launched following a call to police shortly after 09:00hrs on Tuesday, 2 April, to reports of possible human remains found on Rowdown Fields in Croydon.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation who has yet to speak with police is asked to call 101, quoting reference 1656/02Apr.