Was missing Sheffield toddler Ben Needham buried under farmhouse rubble, ask Greek police

Ben Needham, of Sheffield, went missing during a family visit to the island of Kos in 1991 when he was 21 months old.

It was reported today that Greek police believe the youngster may have been buried under rubble near his family’s farmhouse.

The paper said Greek police wanted to excavate the now-overgrown mound of earth and rubble on a property neighbouring the farmhouse.

However, Ben’s mother Kerry Needham, said: “That mound of rubble was already there when Ben was still there.

“I find it very, very unlikely that Ben is there, unless he buried himself.

“Once it is proved that Ben is not dead... then maybe the Greek police will continue in their efforts to try and find him.”

A statement from South Yorkshire Police said: “The investigation into the disappearance of Ben Needham remains with the Greek authorities.

“Should they request any help or support from South Yorkshire Police we will look to support them where we can and within our resources.

“The force’s role is primarily to provide ongoing support to Ben’s family, in particular his mum Kerry.

“South Yorkshire Police continues to undertake a review of material gathered locally during the past 20 years with officers also working with other agencies to examine any material held by them that might further the review.”