New appeal over 1973 child murder

Police have launched a fresh bid to trace those responsible for Northern Ireland's most gruesome child murder.

Detectives appealed for fresh information about the death of 10-year-old Brian McDermott, 30 years after his disappearance and murder.

Brian disappeared from a playground in Ormeau Park in south Belfast on Sunday, September 2, 1973. His mutilated torso and arm were recovered from the River Lagan almost a week later.

Detective Chief Inspector George Hamilton said police were hopeful someone could eventually be caught.

"No one has ever been brought to justice for the murder of this little boy and I realise that it is difficult to jog memories about an incident that happened 30 years ago," he said.

"However, this murder case has never been closed and I am hopeful that someone may be able to provide some snippet of information, which may open a new line of enquiry, or add a new dimension to information already available.

"It is also possible that someone, who did not volunteer information at the time, is now prepared to contact Crimestoppers anonymously."