Police enter family's fire-hit home

Aug 29 2008

Police have entered the burnt-out home of a missing millionaire for the first time.

Christopher Foster, his wife Jill and 15-year-old daughter Kirstie have not been seen since their country estate was gutted by a suspected arson attack shortly before 5am on Tuesday.

Police searched parts of Osbaston House in Maesbrook, near Oswestry, Shropshire, but there was no sign of the family, who are feared to have died in the blaze.

West Mercia Police Superintendent Gary Higgins said: "We have completed a cursory search of the annexe part of the main building, which is relatively intact following the fire.

"Officers have completed a search of the outbuildings and are now in the process of removing vehicles from the site. We will enter the main part of the house today and forensic specialists will begin the lengthy, painstaking process of sifting and examining all the contents."

Police said that "every possible scenario" behind the fire was being considered and they were following up all possible lines of inquiry.

The horses found dead at the scene have now been examined and post mortems on them completed, with police awaiting the results.

Police confirmed that the bodies of three dogs were found close to the horses and a large horse box was parked close to the gates of the property. It has now been removed from the site for forensic examination.

Mr Higgins said: "There is extensive debris at the site and it will take some days, possibly several weeks, to complete this part of the investigation. We will be seeking to build up a picture of the circumstances leading up to the fire."

Meanwhile police are developing profiles for all three family members. Mr Higgins added: "I'm aware there is a lot of speculation concerning this incident and we are anxious to clarify the exact circumstances as soon as possible."