The brother of Keith Bennett has had his solicitor issue a statement after reports that police are digging the Moors in search of remains.

The boy is the only victim of serial killers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley whose body was never recovered.

It has been reported that the skull of a child believed to be around 12 was found on the moors.

A statement from Greater Manchester Police stated author Russell Edwards, who has been researching the murder of Keith Bennett, contacted the force believing he had found potential human remains.

The Oldham Times: A picture of Keith Bennett (PA)A picture of Keith Bennett (PA) (Image: Archive)

Police said specialist officers have begun initial exploration activity but it was 'far too early' to confirm if human remains had been found.

In response to these reports breaking, Alan Bennett, the brother of Keith Bennett, has had his solicitor issue a statement.

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Solicitor John Ainley said: "[I] have spoken to my client, Alan Bennett, concerning the reported development in the search for his brother Keith Bennett.

"My client is keeping an open mind on the latest report having regard to earlier such reports that have raised expectations but not resulted in finding Keith’s body. Naturally, the family are hoping that Keith has been found after all these years and their tireless efforts to find closure.

"I understand Greater Manchester Police are investigating a site of interest but that it will take some weeks to establish whether there is a connection with Keith."

Keith Bennett is the only victim of the Moors murders never to be found as Ian Brady and Myra Hindley never revealed where he was buried.

The 12-year-old was last seen on June 16, 1964, when he left his family home to stay with his grandmother.