A body pulled from the River Brent has been formally identified as missing teenager Alice Gross.

The Metropolitan Police said earlier today they made the discovery last night while searching for the missing 14-year-old, who was last seen walking towards Brentford or Kew on August 28.

In a statement released by her parents, Rosalind Hodgkiss and Jose Gross, the couple say they have been left "completely devastated" by the news.

They said: "It is difficult to comprehend that our sweet and beautiful daughter was the victim of a terrible crime.

"Why anyone would want to hurt her is something that we are struggling to come to terms with.

"Alice was a loving and much loved daughter and sister, a quirky live spark of a girl, beautiful inside and out. She was a funny companion, a loyal friend, both passionate and compassionate, and so talented with a bright future ahead of her.

"She brought so much joy to our family and those who knew her."

They also thanked those who supported the police's efforts to find Alice and urged people to continue to help police by giving them information which could help bring the perpetrator to justice.

A statement released on behalf of Brentside School in Ealing, where Alice attended, described the teenager as an "outstanding and talented student" who will be sorely missed.

It said: "Our thoughts and sympathy are with Alice’s family at this time.

"This is a very sad day for our school and we are devastated by this tragic loss. We are doing everything we can to support each other and will continue to do so in the days and weeks ahead."

Anyone with any information should call the investigation team on 020 8358 0100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.