Human remains discovered in garden

Forensic officers leaving the house of missing 85-year-old Francis Willis in Staindrop, Gateshead
12 April 2012

A post-mortem examination will be carried out on human remains found in a pensioner's back garden.

Police investigating the disappearance of 85-year-old Francis Willis made the discovery in the back garden of his home in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear.

Mr Willis, of Staindrop, Leam Lane estate, has not been seen since the week beginning August 15.

His 62-year-old son, also Francis, of Carr Hill, Gateshead, has appeared before Gateshead Magistrates Court charged with murder.

He was remanded in custody to appear before Newcastle Crown Court on Monday.

Northumbria Police said officers have "recovered what appeared to be human remains in the rear garden" of Mr Willis senior's home.

Police on Wednesday launched a missing person inquiry, due to the elderly man's frail health.

Northumbria Police confirmed on Thursday that the investigation had become a murder inquiry.

Neighbours said Mr Willis senior was a widower and father of two sons, one of whom died from motor neurone disease. They said he was a good neighbour and that he was in poor health due to Parkinson's disease.

Forensics specialists in white suits were seen walking from Mr Willis senior's back garden and loading a van with plastic evidence bags.

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