Churchyard closed after dog walker finds human ear

The grisly discovery took place on Wednesday evening in the grounds of St Mary the Virgin Church in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

Police cordoned off the church to investigate and have sent the ear to the Home Office pathologist to be analysed.

Results are expected next week and officers will launch an investigation if the body part is found to be “current rather than historic”.

A spokeswoman said: “Thames Valley Police is currently investigating a report received yesterday from a member of the public who believed that they found a body part in the grounds of St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Square, Aylesbury.

“Police were called at 6.37pm by a man who was walking his dog and discovered what he believed may be a human ear.

“Investigations are currently ongoing by police and a scene watch was in place this morning, but has now been lifted.”

In a post on its Facebook page earlier yesterday, the church apologised for any inconvenience caused by its temporary closure. It later announced it had reopened and radio broadcasts from its premises would be going ahead yesterday afternoon.