Two 15-year-old boys arrested over girl's murder

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Two 15-year-old boys were arrested on suspicion of murdering a girl of the same age, police said today.

The body of Rebecca Aylward was found in a wooded area just outside Aberkenfig, Bridgend, south Wales, about 9am yesterday.

Rebecca, of Maesteg, was last seen at about 12.30pm on Saturday in Sarn Hill, Sarn, when she was dropped off by relatives to visit a friend.

She was reported missing by her mother that evening when she failed to return home.

South Wales Police said two local boys were arrested and were being held in custody.

Her family have been informed and were being supported and updated about the investigation by family liaison officers.

Detectives appealed for anyone who may have seen Rebecca on Saturday to come forward. An incident room has been set up at Bridgend Police Station.

Detective Superintendent Paul Burke said: "Our thoughts are with Rebecca's family, who are naturally devastated.

"A murder investigation is under way and I would appeal for anyone with information to please contact the incident room."

A patch of woodland at the side of the road into Aberkenfig remained sealed by police today.

Police were at the scene near a bus stop on the outskirts of the village where a section of trees was taped off and lit with lamps.

Equipment, including strimmers, was unloaded from a vehicle from South Wales Police specialist search unit parked at the roadside.

Derek Lewis, who lives near the edge of the woods, said the spot was a popular gathering place for local youngsters.

Mr Lewis, 52, said: "I've been living here 40 years. It's a regular place for youngsters to be.

"I've seen youngsters ten, 15 years going in there when it's dark.

"They get boisterous, but we've never had trouble. You can hear them laughing."

His sister Denise, 46, described how police arrived at the scene yesterday morning.

She said: "It's awful, isn't it? There were helicopters right over the top of us. We were in the garden and everything was going on.

"We saw all the police turn up. They were stopping traffic up the lane. Then the police were in the woods.

"That started about 9.30. I think the helicopter was up about 9. It went on all day."

She added: "Fair play to the police, they have worked there all day. All last night they were there with lights and everything. They are obviously very busy there.

"It's really sad."

Relative Leanne Oatley paid tribute to Rebecca on Facebook, saying the tragedy was the latest to hit the family.

She wrote: "Cant belive thay took our presures princesss away from us my mum now my neice thay will get what is coming to them you never be fogoten R.I.P becca love you allways sleep tight till we see you again xxxx (sic)."

South Wales Police would not comment on how the girl died. A spokeswoman said a post-mortem examination has yet to take place.

Rebecca was in Year 11 at Archbishop McGrath Catholic Comprehensive School in Tondu, Bridgend.

In a joint statement with Bridgend County Borough Council, the school said: "We are shocked and saddened to learn of Rebecca's death. She was a very well-liked and hard-working member of the school community.

"South Wales Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding her death and we are offering them our support and assistance.

"Support is also being made available to anyone who has been affected by Rebecca's death and additional youth workers and counselling services are being provided in the wider community, along with a help and advice hotline.

"As a Catholic community, pupils, parents, teachers, governors and staff at the school are coming together to support and care for each other and to offer their prayers at this difficult time.

"Our thoughts now are with family, friends and all those who have been affected by this tragic death."

Pupils at Rebecca's school are on a half-term break. The help and advice line for anyone affected by the death can be reached on 01656 724057.

Local councillor Christopher Michaelides said: "I'm appalled that somebody has been killed like this. It makes you realise how vulnerable we are in our communities.

"There hasn't been a death like this in Aberkenfig in living memory. I'm absolutely shocked. What a waste of a young life."

Anyone with information was asked to contact Bridgend Police Station on 01656 679585 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.