Police launched a fresh search on Friday for the remains of a man at the centre of a murder investigation.

The torso of Stuart Everett, 67, was found in Kersal Dale Wetlands, near Prestwich, on April 4, with remains discovered at other locations later the same month.

Two men have been charged with his murder.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said on Friday that specialist teams were carrying out “small and methodical searches” at an area of Worsley Woods- the Roe Green Loopline starting at the junction of Worsley Road with Greenleach Lane.

His family paid tribute to him as a “unique and endearing character” who loved food, his garden, music and “a flutter on the horses”.

Police are carrying out patrols to provide support and keep disruption to a minimum.

However, they have had to limit access to certain areas as they conduct a small and methodical search.

Similar searches will take place in the coming weeks.

(Image: PA)

Addressing residents, Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith from GMP's major incident team said: “We are thankful that you understand the immense amount of work that is going into this from the whole force.

“We remain committed, dedicated and focused on our task and this is another example of our ongoing work to do that, by being diligent and respectful towards Stuart and his loved ones who continue to try to process the tragic and upsetting circumstances.

“As we have done from the start, we will keep you updated on our progress, as we all have personally been affected by this case, but in the meantime would like to ask for your further support in this over the weekend by trying to avoid the area where possible.”

Michal Jaroslaw Polchowski, 68, and Marcin Majerkiewicz, 42, both of Worsley Road, Eccles, have been charged with Mr Everett's murder and will appear in court next month.