Police were carrying out investigation work in Gloucester this afternoon in relation to a missing girl suspected to have been a victim of Fred West.

A tent has been erected outside The Clean Plate café on Southgate Street. The building has previously been linked to the disappearance of Mary Bastholm, who has not been since 1968.

Situated between The Docks and the city centre, Southgate Street is a major thoroughfare and today was awash with local and national press along with the usual shoppers.

Stroud News and Journal:

The site is currently being assessed to determine whether excavation work is necessary.

Police could also be seen speaking to the owners of nearby businesses.

Richard Foster is store manager of Dr Fosta CBD and The Vape Joint, located next door to the café.

Stroud News and Journal:

“Police started coming by on Friday. At first we didn’t know what it was for,” he said.

“It’s a bit shocking really, that’s for sure. And unsettling to think there might have been one of his victims under the premises that no one really knew about.

"The community support officers are making sure we are alright."

Richard said he was told police would be at the scene for two or three weeks.