A body was found in the River Brent in the search for missing Alice Gross.

Police made the discovery as part of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance on the 14-year-old from Hanwell, who was last seen on August 28.

Commander Graham McNulty said the recovery of the body from the water was a “significant development” and “significant efforts” were made to conceal the body.

Alice’s family has been informed of the development.

Commander McNulty said: “We are unable to make a formal identification at this stage, but clearly this news is devastating for everyone involved in the search for Alice.

“At this time my thoughts are with Alice's family and friends. I would ask you to respect their privacy and allow them space.

“This is now a murder investigation and I need the public's help to find whoever is responsible.”

Formal identification of the body and a postmortem examination will be carried out in due course.

Police are continuing to appeal to anyone who may know something to come forward.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8358 0100, 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.