News
Human remains found in nature reserve identified as missing Bolton man last seen five years ago
James was last seen in August 2016
Human remains discovered in a nature reserve in Bolton have been formally identified as those of a man reported missing more than five years ago.
James Hodgkiss, thirty-four, was last seen carrying a black hand luggage bag on Weston Street in Great Lever, Bolton on August 3rd 2016.
His remains were found after Greater Manchester Police officers were called to the former Red Moss reserve in Horwich on January 24th.
GMP has said it does not believe James died in suspicious circumstances.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Rollinson, of GMP’s Bolton district, said in a statement: “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.”
David Dixon / Geograph
James’ family are being supported by specialist officers.
An extensive missing person investigation was initially launched by GMP in 2016 following the man’s disappearance, with police previously launching a number of appeals and searching a number of areas, including Bradford Reservoir.
James’ mother Christine Hodgkiss and father John have frequently distributed leaflets around Bolton over the years, telling people about James in the hope that someone would have recognised him.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5757 quoting log number 1626 of January 24th.
Information can also also be reported online or by using the Live Chat function at www.gmp.police.uk. If you can’t report online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.