MYSTERY surrounds a consistent police presence in Woodley after officers were again spotted near South Lake.

A local resident told the Chronicle Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Police officers have been working at the site since the middle of December when two policemen were spotted searching the lake as part of a water search team.

On December 11, officers were again spotted in the area combing over a stretch of ground and looking in bushes.

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In recent days, police have also reportedly been seen searching the edges of the lake with submersible equipment.

Dogs have also been used in the force’s search at “various times” over the last few weeks.

The Chronicle asked Thames Valley Police to clarify why officers were searching the area.

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A spokesperson told this newspaper that as of January 9, they did not have information that would outline why police were in the area.

However, enquiries have been made with officers involved in the investigation and the Chronicle is awaiting further comment.