‘Limbless human torso’ found in Mitcham River ‘belongs to Sarah Mayhew, 38, who was murdered by couple’

A ‘LIMBLESS’ human torso discovered in a river is believed to belong to a woman who was allegedly murdered by a couple.

The remains of Sarah Mayhew, 38, were first discovered dismembered in Rowdown Fields, Croydon, on April 2.

The Met have now confirmed that they believe other body parts found yesterday in Mitcham, south London, are Sarah’s.

The remains were discovered in the River Wandle by contractors carrying out clean-up work.

Locals were left shocked after the “limbless torso” was pulled from the water by emergency crews.

Sarah’s family have been informed of the tragic development and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Steven Sansom, 44, and Gemma Watts, 48, have been charged with Sarah’s murder.

A court hearing last month was told Sarah’s head, arms and legs had previously been discovered but some of her remains were still missing.

The alarm was raised when a dog walking in the fields returned to its master carrying a human bone.

Sansom and Watts were remanded in custody ahead of a June 27 plea hearing.

They are charged with murder and preventing the lawful and decent burial of a corpse.

Sansom is also charged with three counts of making indecent images of a child.

Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts go out to Sarah’s family. We will continue to offer our support as our investigation progresses.

“I expect my officers to remain in the area for some time as they carry out important work on site.

“Two people arrested, who were known to Sarah, were later charged with her murder. We are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with her death.

“Requests are in progress.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 1656/02Apr.