UPDATE: Hand gun found during searches for investigation into missing Kettering teenager

Searches of woodland near Warkton have been taking place today as part of a fresh appeal to find the 14-year-old who went missing in April 2000.

A review of the case, which has seen 20 witnesses interviewed in recent months, led officers to search the woodland in the hope of finding some link to Sarah.

As part of that work officers uncovered the hand gun (pictured), which appears to have been in place for some time.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Kinchin, said: “A thorough search of the woodland is taking place because we have recently been told the area was used for storing stolen goods and other items.

“At this stage there is no evidence to suggest the hand gun has any connection to Sarah and her disappearance, but it does reinforce how important it is to search this piece of land.

“We want to hear from anyone who may have any information about Sarah’s disappearance, or who may have information about how this piece of woodland was used by people wanting to hide items, including stolen goods.

“Anyone with information can contact us on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”

To read more from DCI Kinchin, who is leading today’s searches, click here

For more information about today’s searches, click here