Remains found in river believed to be Sarah Mayhew

Human remains found in a river in south London are believed to be those of 38-year-old Sarah Mayhew.

The remains were discovered by contractors carrying out clean-up work in the River Wandle in Rawnsley Avenue, Mitcham, on Tuesday afternoon.

The remains discovered on April 2 in Rowdown Fields, New Addington, have already been identified as those of Mrs Mayhew, from Croydon.

A man and a woman were charged with murder in April.

Following an examination of the latest discovery, Ms Mayhew’s family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, the Metropolitan Police said.

Mrs Mayhew was last seen in Sutton, south-west London, on the evening of March 8.

Gemma Watts, 48, and Steven Sansom, 44, both appeared at the Old Bailey in April charged with murder.

They are also charged with preventing a lawful and decent burial.

The court heard Ms Watts, of New Addington, Croydon, and Mr Sansom, of Sutton, south London, who prosecutors said killed Ms Mayhew at a residential property on the night of March 8.

The court heard Ms Mayhew’s body was then cut up and dumped.

At the time, the Old Bailey heard that Mrs Mayhew’s remains had not yet been fully recovered and the search was continuing.

Both defendants were remanded in custody.

Det Insp Martin Thorpe said on Wednesday: “My thoughts remain with Sarah’s family. We will continue to offer our support as our investigation progresses.

“We are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with her death.”

Det Insp Thorpe added that officers are expected to remain at the scene for some time to continue their work.