April Jones Murder Home To Be Demolished

The house where five-year-old April Jones was believed murdered by Mark Bridger in mid-Wales is set to be demolished.

He took the schoolgirl to the rented cottage in Ceinws after abducting her as she played with friends in nearby Machynlleth.

Detectives think Bridger, 48, dismembered her body at the property before disposing of her remains at a number of locations around the countryside in October 2012.

The following year, he was sentenced to life in prison.

Since the killing, the property has served as a grim reminder of the tragedy - with April's parents Coral and Paul leading the calls for it to be knocked down.

The Welsh Government has now bought the house after discussions with the family.

A spokesman said: "The Welsh Government will now work with the local authority, the Jones family and the local community for the most appropriate future for the site - following demolition of the property."

A statement by April's parents on Facebook read: "This is a huge weight off our minds.

"The loss of our beautiful daughter was bad enough, but the house has been a constant reminder of the tragic events.

"Our family want to thank the Welsh Government for listening to us and for understanding our need to see the house demolished."

The Labour administration in Cardiff Bay is believed to have brokered a deal worth £149,000 with the owner of the cottage - which was rented by Bridger.

The price paid is thought to be the 2008 market value of the house.