Family and friends are leaving floral tributes to Ellesmere Port woman Ellia Arathoon following the launch of a murder investigation into her death.

The 29-year-old, who lived near the town centre, has not been seen since Friday, October 28.

Craig Andrew Procter, 39, of Shephard Close, Ellesmere Port, has been charged with her murder.

Cheshire Police has confirmed human remains have been found near the M53, believed to be beyond the end of Cromwell Road, Ellesmere Port, close to where floral tributes are being dropped off by members of the community.

Above a smiling image of Ellia is a tribute from ‘Steph’, who wrote: “To Ellia, my dear friend. This is how you will be remembered. Love you always budda, Steph x.”

Floral tributes left to Ellia Arathoon at the end of Cromwell Road, Ellesmere Port following the launch of a murder investigation into her death.

Her cousin Lisa wrote on a floral tribute: “I can’t believe that you’re not here with us and I will never see you again. But undoubtedly in heaven, smiling down on us. Love you. From your cousin Lisa, xxx. Always remembered, xxx.”

Another tribute read: “To Ellia, we will all cherish our memories with you and keep you in our hearts forever. Till we meet again, Declan, Ethan, Georgia, Emily xxx.”

One card said simply: "You're an angel now, beautiful girl - too young to leave."

Police continue to carry out investigations into Ellia’s death.

The end of Cromwell Road is cordoned off as is a large section of the canal towpath. A property in Shephard Close, which has been the subject of a forensic examination, is also cordoned off with a police officer in a patrol car guarding the scene.

A hearing took place at Chester Magistrates Court on Friday but the accused did not appear after refusing to come out of his cell. Members of the deceased’s family were present at the back of the courtroom.

Procter will face a bail hearing at Chester Crown Court tomorrow (November 7). He is expected to enter his plea at a hearing scheduled for December 2.

A 37-year-old man also arrested in relation to the investigation has been bailed pending further enquiries.