Family of Nicola Bulley slam media after missing body is identified

They branded the behaviour of the media and public as 'shameful'

The family of Nicola Bulley have hit out at the media after it was confirmed that the body of recovered from the River Wyre on Sunday was her. Assistant Chief Constable Peter Lawson confirmed the tragic news to reporters at a press conference on Monday evening. Detective Chief Superintendent Pauline Staples read an emotional statement on behalf of Nicola Bulley's family in which they said their "worst fears" had been confirmed. The family said they were  "saddened" that one day they'll have to explain to Bulley's children that members of the media accused their father of their mother's death. They went on to condemn Sky News and ITV for contacting them on Monday despite their appeal for privacy.

It is "shameful" the press has acted in this way, they said.

"Leave us alone now", they added.

The family asked if the press and other media channels do not know when to stop.

https://twitter.com/5_News/status/1627723832516816896

Det Ch Supt Stables continued reading the statement in which Nicola Bulley's family thanked friends, neighbours and strangers for their support.

"Our hearts truly break for others who have missing loved ones, keep that hope alive," she added.

Related links:

• Police confirm body found in river is that of missing mum Nicola Bulley
• Diving expert who searched for Nicola Bulley appears to blame police for failing to find her
• 'Agony' for Nicola Bulley's family as they await identification of body found in search for missing mum
• Dog walker who found Nicola Bulley’s phone speaks out for the first time
• Lancashire police to be questioned over Nicola Bulley case
• Nicola Bulley's friend says police shared her alcohol struggles to 'shift focus' off them