Tragic news has just reached me that police have discovered a body in Tia Sharp’s grandmother’s house.

The police have yet to formally confirm that the body is Tia’s yet this devastating development will come as a huge blow to her family and the community in New Addington, all of whom have worked tirelessly to try to find her over the past week.

The police and forensic teams now have a serious job to do and I ask that we all please allow them to get on with trying to close a case which has, in such a short period of time, affected so many of us in Croydon and around the country.

Despite the sad end to an emotional week I want to praise the community in New Addington for their relentless dedication to trying to help their neighbour’s family. So often in times of tragedy come inspirational displays of community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sharp family, the community of New Addington and everyone affected by this tragedy.