Locals in a Surrey village have been left in "shock and fear" after the discovery of a 10-year-old girl's body.

Police launched a murder investigation on Thursday after making the discovery at an address in the quiet neighbourhood in Horsell near Woking.

There was a heavy police presence in the vicinity of the semi-detached home on Friday as people laid flowers on the pavement outside the property.

Neighbours told PA News that a family of six "very young" children moved into the house in April of this year.

One local mother said she was "traumatised" by the sad news, adding that her children are "terrified".

She said: “It’s just a shock. My 16-year-old daughter was very upset thinking about that little girl.”

Several other residents said they too were shocked after hearing about the girl.

In a statement, Surrey Police said that officers were called to carry out a welfare check at the address at around 2:20 am after "concerns" were raised over the girl's safety.

The child’s loved ones have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers, Surrey Police said.

Detective Chief Inspector Debbie White said: “This is a devastating incident, and our officers are working hard to build a picture of what happened.

“We have identified a number of individuals we would like to speak to as part of our enquiries and at this stage, we are not looking to identify anyone else in connection with our investigation.

Your Local Guardian: Those with information about the girl are being urged to contact police (Jonathan Brady/PA)Those with information about the girl are being urged to contact police (Jonathan Brady/PA) (Image: Jonathan Brady/PA)

“We have no reason to believe there is any risk to the public.

“There is a significant police presence in Hammond Road and this will remain over the coming days.

“We appreciate that the police presence will be causing concern and we would like to thank local residents for their co-operation as we conduct our investigation.

“We will provide further updates as soon as we are in a position to.”

Those with information are being urged to contact Surrey Police, quoting PR/45230089209.