The Police Service of Northern Ireland's Legacy Investigation Branch is appealing for the public's help in reviewing the murder of a 10-year-old boy from East Belfast, Brian McDermott, 52 years after he went missing. Brian disappeared from Ormeau Park on Sunday, 2 September 1973. His remains were recovered from the River Lagan a week later.

Brian left his home in the Well Street area at around 12.30pm that day and was last seen playing alone in a playground between 1pm and 3pm. Detectives are seeking new information to assist with their investigation into the 52-year-old case.

Detective Chief Inspector Byrne said: "It has been more than fifty years since that day and we are acutely aware of the pain and suffering that Brian's family continue to feel and our thoughts very much remain with the family at this time. "Despite the passage of time, this murder case has never been closed and I am hopeful that someone may be able to provide information, no matter how small, 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, may be willing to speak with police now. Legacy Investigation Branch Detectives will consider all investigative opportunities as part of the review into Brian's murder.

"If anyone has any information in relation to Brian's murder we would ask them to contact Legacy Investigation Branch where all information will be assessed and considered by investigators."

Detectives can be contacted on 101 or by emailing LIBEnquiries@psni.police.uk quoting reference RM05003065. A report can also be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.