Skull found in search for Moors murders victim Keith Bennett

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Geologist Lesley Dunlop also carried out soil analysis at the scene which indicated human remains were present.

Chemical analysis revealed high levels of calcium and phosphorus which indicates bones were in the soil.

There was also nickel present which is usually found in zips and fastenings as well as the clothing dye cobalt, which would suggest that it is not animal remains.

The university lecturer told the Daily Mail: “From my analysis and from my visual impression, I would say that this area has had human remains in it.

“I cannot think of another explanation other than it being human remains.”

Mr Edwards described the moment he made the discovery, saying: “The smell hit me about 2ft down. Like a sewer, like ammonia. It was on my clothes. I stank of it. The soil reeked. I worked as a gravedigger when I was 19. That hits you, that smell of death. It is distinctive.

“Then we found blue and white striped material. Then I stopped. I put everything back as I found it.”

Mr Edwards said he is convinced it is the 12-year-old’s body, adding: “This is about peace for Keith and closure for the family.”

Keith’s brother Alan, 66, who has devoted his life to trying to find his sibling, was informed about the extraordinary discovery. Sources described him as “stoic” when he was told.

Greater Manchester Police’s Officer Bottomley said: “The site was assessed late last night and, this morning, specialist officers have begun initial exploration activity. We are in the very early stages of assessing the information which has been brought to our attention but have made the decision to act on it in line with a normal response to a report of this kind.

“It is far too early to be certain whether human remains have been discovered and this is expected to take some time.

“We have always said that GMP would act on any significant information which may lead to the recovery of Keith and reunite him with his family. As such, we have informed his brother of the potential development – he does not wish to be contacted at this time and asks that his privacy is respected.”

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