Police tonight confirmed they are still searching the Moors for murder victim Kieth Bennett after it is believed a human skull was found last week.
Specialist officers and staff have been combing the area since Friday, September 30.
Kieth was 12 years old when he went missing in 1964.
He was one of five victims of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley – three of whom were found buried on Saddleworth Moor.
Samples found by a member of the public were sent by Greater Manchester Police for expert analysis - and the results are still pending.
Tonight's update is that a search of the examination area previously dug has been completed, but no bones, fabric or "items of interested" were recovered.
However, the search continues as teams are now excavating the area immediately around it.
Further soil samples have been taken for analysis.
At this time, police say there is no visible evidence to suggest the presence of human remains.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Hughes, of GMP’s Force Review Unit, said: “Forensic Archaeologists and Forensic Anthropologists have now completed a methodical archaeological excavation and examination of the area previously dug and refilled by the member of the public.
"No bones, fabric or items of interest were recovered from the soil.
“These accredited and certified forensic experts are now continuing with a methodical and controlled excavation of the area immediately surrounding the original site to provide a higher level of assurance of the presence or absence of any items of interest.
"Further soil samples have been taken for analysis, but at this time there is no visible evidence to suggest the presence of human remains. The scene examination is ongoing.
“A report of possible human remains is always treated with seriousness. As such, we have deployed police search advisors who can support our scenes of crimes officers – this will result in more visible and high-profile tactics, such as officers walking in lines to identify any potential sites of focus.
“GMP is committed to providing Keith’s family with answers following this report, both from the physical excavation and subsequent analysis of his will take some time but we will keep the family updated at every stage and request that their privacy is respected.
“We have seen the outpouring of support since this news broke so know how our communities feel about this case but we are asking members of the public not to travel to the area and can assure them that we will provide timely and appropriate updates.”
