Police have confirmed that the body recovered yesterday from the River Brent in London is that of 14-year-old Alice Gross.

It's over a month since she initially disappeared - and a huge police operation got underway to find her.

Alice's parents, Rosalind Hodgkiss and Jose Gross, say they are "completely devastated" by the developments.

"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.

"We still don't know who is responsible for this crime and we ask that people continue to help the police by giving them information that could help bring the perpetrator to justice.

"We would like to thank all those that have supported us in our efforts to find Alice, especially the local community; it is comforting to know that so many people care.

"This is a personal and private tragedy and one which we want to be allowed to deal with in that manner, rather than fearing any individual or group will use it to further any political agenda. This is a time for grieving and not a time for anger or recriminations.

"We trust that the press will behave responsibly and not publish any material that might jeopardise any future criminal proceedings.

"We now ask for our privacy to be respected to allow us time to grieve as a family."

A post-mortem examination will continue tomorrow.