A murder investigation has been launched after human remains were discovered in a popular woodland in south-west London.

Metropolitan Police received a call at 6.35pm on 12 August that bones had been discovered in the woodland adjacent to Padstow Walk, Feltham, known locally as ‘The Pits’.

Subsequent examinations have confirmed the remains are human. It is believed the remains belong to a woman aged approximately between 25 and 45 years old and enquiries remain ongoing to confirm her identity.

It is also not clear how long her remains have been at the location.

Following a postmortem taking place on 17 August, a murder investigation has been launched.

Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, said: “We have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of these remains and are working to establish the full circumstances of what happened while keeping an open mind.

"I would urge anyone who has information that may assist us in identifying the victim and understanding the circumstances of her death to come forward and speak to us."

A crime scene is expected to be in place for a number of weeks while inquiries continue. The woodland has been taped off to the public and one police car could seen parked on a nearby road.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 and quote CAD 6452/12AUG or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.