72-year-old man arrested after human bones discovered on remote farm in Yorkshire

Remains are male and more than half a century old, forensic experts say

A 72-year-old man has been arrested after human bones were discovered on a Yorkshire farm.

The remains were found on remote farmland near the village of Chop Gate, on the edge of the North York Moors, on 31 March.

It is not known exactly how old the bones are, however forensic archaeologists say they are male and likely to have been there for more than half a century.

North Yorkshire Police said a 72-year-old man, from the York, has been arrested, interviewed and released on conditional bail while the investigation continues.

The force is working with the Ministry of Defence, Royal Air Force Forensic Team and other RAF and Army experts to remove military memorabilia found in outbuildings at the empty property.

A police spokesperson said it is common practice for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) to assist police with advice in operations such as this.

Material experts will also be involved throughout the search and recovery process, they added.

The police force stressed that the death is not being treated as a homicide.

It said in a statement: “It is important to stress that the discovery of historic remains and burial sites are relatively common on North Yorkshire farmland.

“Officers are keeping an open mind until more information is known, but this is not a homicide investigation.

“We urge people to refrain from speculating about this legally active case, both in the media and on social media.”

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and speak to the force control room, quoting reference number 12200052953.

Alternatively, information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.