Seven people have been arrested on suspicion of murdering aspiring filmmaker Dominic Bernard from Epsom, according to the BBC.

From yesterday: Body found in search for missing Epsom teenager Dominic Bernard - Two arrested

The Epsom teenager had travelled to Guyana in October where he had extended family, including his godbrother, Aaron Hing, 22.

He had flown to Timehri in Guyana on October 14 last year to pursue his dream of becoming a filmmaker.

He was supposed to fly back to England on November 5, but after he failed to return home, his family raised the alarm and an investigation was launched.

Surrey Comet:

A body – believed to be that of Dominic Bernard – was found on Friday, January 8

Reports from Guyana indicated that on Friday, January 8, investigators discovered a badly decomposed body in a shallow grave near to the area he was scheduled to stay in.

Post-mortem examinations found the body had a fractured skull and broken neck.

DNA tests are ongoing.

Media reports in Guyana say a hammer - thought to be one of the murder weapons - was recovered.

Guyana's police chief has told the BBC that he is applying to the courts for more time to hold the suspects pending further tests on the body.

The BBC's reporter in Guyana, Colin Smith, said he had also been told two of the suspects had made detailed confessions.

Did you know Mr Bernard? Comment below or email craig.richard@london.newsquest.co.uk