Grim discoveries spark off probe

POLICE have launched a major investigation after the grim discovery of two bodies in Reed Pond.

Specialist officers from the Kent and Essex serious crime directorate set up an incident room to investigate the deaths, which were being treated as "unexplained" when the Times went to press.

PAYING TRIBUTE: Councillor Jennie Edwards expressed her shock at Daniel Lloyd's death GIEM20110531A-003_X
TALENTED: Daniel Lloyd, also known as Taihg, was a well-known busker in Canterbury
TRAGIC: Tributes have been pouring in for popular former Archbishop's pupil, Hugo Wenn GILC20120131A-002_X
INVESTIGATION: Forensic officers scour the crime scene for clues GIAC20120131E-011_N
GRIEF: Floral tributes have been left at the scene where the bodies of two buskers were found GIAC20120131E-003_N
INQUIRY: The area around Reed Pond was cordoned off while police investigated GIAC20120131E-024_N

After the discovery of the first body on Monday, Detective Inspector Nick Greenan said: "We believe this was an isolated and tragic incident."

Four hours later, however, a second body was pulled from the water.

Speaking on Tuesday, Chief Inspector Steve Barlow said it was "extremely unusual" for police to find two corpses in such circumstances.

He added: "This is a shocking and highly unusual incident for the police here in Canterbury.

"It is believed the deceased and the suspect are acquaintances, but this will form part of the investigation.

"These are particularly tragic circumstances. We have no reason to suspect there is any ongoing danger to the public."

Mr Barlow also appealed for anyone who was in the area of Reed Pond, near Tennyson Avenue, between 5pm last Friday and 11am on Monday to get in touch with police.

Anyone with information or who saw anything unusual can contact police on 01303 289600 or call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.