Human remains have been found in a well in Crete, where a British man vanished more than a decade ago.

Steven Cook, then 20, disappeared on a night out in Malia with friends in 2005. Despite appeals on UK and Greek television, Cook, from Sandbach, Cheshire, has never been found.

Cook’s brother, Chris Cook, said the Greek authorities were working on identifying the remains.



“We have had similar situations regarding remains being discovered over the years, including a skeleton washed up on a beach near Malia a week or so ago, so, as then, we just have to sit tight and let the professionals do their bit,” he said.



Cheshire police confirmed the discovery of “what appear to be human remains in Malia, Crete”, and said officers were liaising with the Greek authorities.



DI Gary McIntyre said: “Steven Cook’s family is aware of the discovery and we will be keeping them fully updated on any developments. They have been provided with support since Steven first went missing and this will continue at what is understandably an emotional time for them.



“At this early stage, the remains have been removed and will be examined in Greece to determine whether they belong to a female or a male.



“It is important to remember that this discovery is being managed by the Greek authorities, who have primacy for this, and they will continue to liaise with our senior investigating officer in Steven’s case.”