Local politicians have spoken about the feeling of devastation in the community after police investigating the disappearance of Alice Gross recovered a body in the River Brent.

A formal identification has not yet taken place but the 14-year-old Hanwell girl's family have been informed and the inquiry is now being treated as murder.

MP for Ealing North Steve Pound said there has been a dreadful inevitability for the last five weeks but the news is still horrific and shocking. 

He said: "The entire local community has been united in the search for Alice and we will be just as united in our grief and in our support for the family. 

"Alice is a wonderfully talented singer, musician and songwriter and her music will always be with us as will be her memory. 

"We have lessons to learn at a national and international level but now is the time to give the family the space and the silence to grieve."

Councillor Julian Bell, leader of the council, added: “The news that a body has been discovered in the River Brent is devastating.

"Although no formal identification has yet been made our heartfelt sympathy and thoughts are with Alice’s parents and sister during this difficult time.   

“Today is the day that everyone in our community has dreaded and the yellow ribbons flying across our borough show how deeply our community cares and has been affected.

"It is essential that anyone with information that can help the police’s investigation comes forward.

“On behalf of the community I would like to thank the police officers involved in the search for their dedication and perseverance.”

The leader said that as a sign of respect, no ribbons will be removed until it has been discussed with Alice’s family.