Fred West police begin cellar search for Mary Bastholm

Mary Bastholm used to work at the cafe in Southgate Street where Fred West was a regular customer

Forensic archaeologists have begun examining a cafe basement in the search for suspected Fred West victim, Mary Bastholm.

The 15-year-old, who worked at the now-called Clean Plate in Gloucester, went missing in the city on 6 January 1968.

Officers say the work, involving geophysical survey equipment, means dismantling a fireplace at the scene.

Miss Bastholm's then boyfriend Tim Merrett said he did not think she would be found there.

She went missing on her way to catch a bus to visit Mr Merrett.

Serial killer West was previously suspected over her disappearance.

The search began after a film crew alerted police to evidence a body could be buried there

Fred West took his own life while awaiting trial for the murders of 12 people

Mr Merrett said: "I really don't think anything will come of this. She left the cafe for the day, went home and changed before going to the bus stop to come and see me.

"Why would she be back at the cafe?"

On Friday, officers were called in following suggestions a body may have been buried at the cafe on Southgate Street.

Gloucestershire Police said the force could be at the site "for a number of weeks".

In 1994, West admitted murdering his daughter Heather. The confession came as police began to search 25 Cromwell Street, where they found the bodies of nine girls and young women.

He and his wife Rose were jointly charged with nine murders and he was charged with a further three.

West took his own life in prison while awaiting a trial in 1995.

Flowers were left at the scene on Wednesday, but remains have not been found

Rose's former lawyer Leo Goatley said it "wouldn't surprise me if a body was found there", adding the Wests often visited the cafe.

Both Mary and Fred West's first victim, Anne McFall, worked there.

"I've spoken to witnesses who have said that they may have seen Rose West there," he added.

West's biographer Geoffrey Wansell said the killer had never admitted to police he had killed her, but allegedly confessed to his solicitor, who was then sacked.

Miss Bastholm's family are aware of recent developments and have asked for privacy.