James Hodgkiss: human remains found in woodland are Bolton man who went missing six years ago

Human remains found in a woodland have been identified as those of a Bolton man who went missing six years ago.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) made the grim discovery in a woodland reserve in the borough last year.

And now the remains have been formally identified as those of missing Bolton man James Hodgkiss,

What did the police discover?

Police were called just before 3pm on Monday 24 January to an area close to Aspinall Way at Future Park, Horwich, to a report of bones having been discovered.

The remains were confirmed to be human and have since been formally identified as Bolton man James Hodgkiss.

James was reported missing on 3 August 2016, after last being seen on Weston Street in Great Lever.

An extensive missing person investigation was launched by GMP in 2016 but sadly James, who was 34 at the time he went missing, was never found.

An investigation is ongoing to establish the cause of death.

However, police said there are believed to be no suspicious circumstances and a report has been prepared for the coroner.

GMP said James’ family is being supported by specialist officers.

Anyone with any information about James’ disappearance or death is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5757, quoting log number 1626 of the date 24/01/22.

Information can also be reported online by using the Live Chat function on GMP’s website, ringing 101 or calling independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

What has GMP said about the discovery?

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Rollinson, of GMP’s Bolton district, said: “Our thoughts go out to James’ family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“We would now ask that their privacy be respected as they come to terms with this news.

“At the time of James’ disappearance, an extensive missing person investigation was launched, with a number of searches carried out, as well as extensive financial, CCTV, and social media enquiries undertaken.

“Sadly, this is not the news that many will have hoped for. However, our investigation will continue to establish the full circumstances and provide the answers his family is looking for.”