BUDDING forensic scientists at the University of Central Lancashire unearthed 'human' bones in the grounds of a run-down building

The skull, leg, spine and shoulder bones, buried in the old croquet lawn of the grade two listed Bank Hall, Bretherton, near Leyland, were part of eight plastic skeletons.

They were planted on the Jacobean hall site six weeks ago, by 30 forensic science degree students, as part of a human remains recovery module.

As part of the course, the third year students have been studying shallow graves and how difficult it is to bury a dead body.

Dr Jennie Hawcroft, degree course leader, said: "We've looked at how close exit roads were to the graves and how to spot clandestine graves by the sink of the earth.

"We've tried to mimic a police crime scene so they can get an idea of what a real one would be like." Louise Godfrey, 21, of Marsh Lane, Preston, said: "The little bones like the ones in the fingers are really hard to find but it's exciting when you do.

"I think it would be a great job to do and it's been a lot easier than when we planted the bones because the soil's a lot dryer."

Eleanor Jones, 21, of Ripon Street, Preston, said: "It's very exciting when you discover some bones and can put the theory into practice. I much prefer it to being in the lab but I think I'd like to be the person that comes after the dig has been done because I find the digging quite tedious."

It is hoped the project will help the Bank Hall Action Group secure lottery grant funding to restore the building.