Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Man charged with 'Babes in the Wood' murder

Tuesday 28 March 2000 00:00 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Detectives have charged a man with the "Babes in the Wood" murders of two children 30 years ago, Scotland Yard confirmed.

Ronald Jebson, 61, appeared in court today accused of killing young friends Susan Blatchford and Gary Hanlon whose decomposed bodies were found in Epping Forest.

Susan, 11, and Gary, 13, had disappeared from their homes at Enfield, north London, in March 1970.

There was speculation that the pair had run away together but their bodies were found 11 weeks later in a copse in the forest.

The coroner at their inquest recorded an open verdict because scientific tests three decades ago could not tell if the pair had died from foul play or exposure.

But the case was reopened by Scotland Yard four years ago and took a fresh twist last year when the body of Susan was exhumed for further tests to be carried out.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said today: "Ronald Jebson, 61, was charged today with the murders of Susan Blatchford and Gary Hanlon on or before June 1970."

Jebson appeared before Brent magistrates today and was remanded in custody until April 11.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in