olice have confirmed a homicide investigation has been launched after a physique was discovered within the space {that a} 54-year-old lady went lacking whereas strolling her canine.

Claire Knights, from Upstreet close to Canterbury, was final seen within the Kent village on Wednesday.

It is believed she was strolling her white and brown spaniel known as Zebulon – which was later discovered – from there to the world of Minnis Bay in Birchington.

A physique was present in a location close to to Minnis Bay at 7pm on Friday and the household of Ms Knights have been knowledgeable though formal identification has not but taken place, in line with Kent Police.

There will likely be an elevated police presence within the space as searches by specialist officers and inquiries by a staff of detectives proceed

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A drive spokesman stated {that a} man aged in his 20s had been arrested on suspicion of homicide and was being assessed by medical professionals.

He added {that a} autopsy examination had been carried out on the physique however didn't present particulars of the reason for demise.

The spokesman stated: “Kent Police has commenced a murder investigation after a woman was found deceased near Birchington.

“Shortly after 7pm on Friday August 25 2023, officers attended the scene between St Nicholas At Wade and Minnis Bay.

“Formal identification has not yet taken place, however, the family of Claire Knights, a 54-year-old woman reported missing from Upstreet on Wednesday August 23, are aware.

“A post-mortem examination has been completed and Kent Police’s Major Crime Department has now launched a murder investigation.

“Claire’s vehicle, a silver Suzuki car, was recovered from Shuart Lane, St Nicholas At Wade.

“She is believed to have walked from there to the Minnis Bay area of Birchington, where she is reported to have been seen later that afternoon.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area as searches by specialist officers and inquiries by a team of detectives continue.

“On Thursday August 24, a man in his 20s from Margate was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has since been detained for assessment by medical professionals.”