Man held on suspicion of April Jones murder

Police have released a picture of Mark Bridger, the 46-year-old man they have arrested on suspicion of her abduction (PA)

The man under investigation by police for April Jones' abduction has been arrested on suspicion of her murder, Sky News reports.

Mark Bridger, 46, has been held for the past three days by police and now faces further interrogation by detectives, who have until 5pm today to charge or release the man - but are expected to apply for a warrant for further detention.

The arrest "does not detract from our efforts to locate April and we remain committed to finding her", said Detective Superintendent Reg Bevan.

Police also said they now only require professional search-teams in the hunt for the missing girl.

Sky's Crime Correspondent Martin Brunt said: "Clearly it appears that the police are looking for a body now and have given up hope of finding April alive."

Specialist search teams battled torrential rain last night and officers are continuing to appeal to the public for any information they have.