A GIRL of 10 missing from home was today found dead.
Lauren Pilkington-Smith's body was found by her grandfather in woods just yards from her home. It had been partially covered with foliage near to Sanderson Street in Leigh.
Police today launched a murder hunt.
The youngster's parents from Twist Lane, Leigh, raised the alarm when she failed to come home at 8pm last night after going out to play with friends.
As police and family members scoured the local area looking for her, Lauren's grandad made the gruesome discovery at around 2.30am.
Forensic experts have started the painstaking task of carefully examining her body and the area where she was found for any clues to how she died.
Lauren had two sisters, 15-year-old Rebecca and Ciara, aged two-and-a-half. She also had a four-year-old brother, Sam.
The popular pupil at Leigh C of E School loved football, was a keen Manchester United fan and liked golf and BMX bikes.
In a statement released through police, mum Alison Pilkington-Smith and dad Glen Smith, said: "Lauren was a beautiful, lively little girl."The family has been left devastated by what has happened. Our world has collapsed in the last 24-hours and we cannot even begin to think about what we will do without her.
"Lauren was a tomboy who loved playing out and everyone around here adored her.
"We don't know how we will come to terms with this."
Today, neighbours said they were shocked to hear what had happened to the youngster.
Headteacher Brian Fawcett said: "All of us in school are absolutely devastated and saddened by the tragic news of Lauren's death.
"Lauren was a happy, popular and successful pupil in our year six age group and our condolences and love are extended to her family. The children and staff are being lovingly supported by our vicar and officers from the local education authority."
Det Supt Andy Tattersall said: "The area of land where the youngster's body was found remains cordoned off. Lauren's body is still at the scene, but a Home Office post mortem examination will take place as soon as we are able to move her.
"Lauren's death is a tragic incident and our thoughts and sympathies are with her friends and family."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 7351 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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Girl found dead in woods
July 08, 2005
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I am so very sorry to hear of that little girls horrible death. My heart goes to her family and I hope whoever has done this terrible crime, be caught, and dealt with.
What a sickening tragedy this is. The last 24 hours has led to me questioning, again, just what kind of world we live in. My heart goes out to Lauren's family and I pray the perpitrator is caught. And soon.
so whats wrong with bringing back hanging now then??
remember the huntley murders hes living a life of luxury, compared to the homeless wheres the sense in that??
What can a Girl aged 10 have done to harm or hurt anybody.
If her murderers are found I hope names are not released.
lauren was a beautiful little girl and she will be sadly missed. Whoever did this deserves to rot in hell for what they have done. I think it is discusting.
I'am so very sorry for your loss. We are too going thru a loss our selfs. My nephew was just found dead in Canada along with a friend. I'm a mother of four and I cant even begin to know what your going thru. I send my love and prayers to you all. And hope you get answers to all your questions soon