The remains of the four Vietnamese men who died in a fire at Bismark Mill in May last year have been repatriated.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said the remains have been returned to their families in Vietnam.

Uoc Van Nguyen, Cuong Van Chu, Duong Van Nguyen and Nam Thanh were identified through DNA testing after remains were discovered by demolition workers in July and August last year, some weeks after the fire on May 7.

At a pre-inquest review hearing into the deaths of the four men at Rochdale Coroners' Court on June 9, Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes and area coroner for Manchester North Joanne Kearsley said they were both satisfied the bodies had been identified and could be returned to Vietnam.

Ms Kearsley said the remains would be cremated before being repatriated.

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The criminal investigation into the fire and deaths remains open, with four individuals having been arrested so far, all of whom are currently on bail. GMP is yet to formally charge anyone.

At the pre-inquest review in June, DSI Hughes said a large number of warrants had been executed as police investigate to see if the fire and deaths were connected to organised crime, the cultivation of cannabis and modern slavery.

He agreed with Ms Kearsley's understanding that the investigation will likely take "some time" before it concludes.

Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes, GMP’s Disaster Victim Identification lead, said: "It is a huge relief for the bereaved families to finally have their loved ones back in Vietnam.

"They have been extremely patient during what has been a difficult time for them, as we ensured that all remains were ethically recovered and identified.

"Our thoughts will remain with them as they come to terms with their losses.

"Whilst we met with them last week as we finalised repatriation, they will continue to be updated via family liaison officers and translators."

Anyone with information should contact GMP via 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. International callers can contact GMP via +441618725050. Information can also be submitted in English or Vietnamese via the Major Incident Public Portal: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).

Anyone who would like to remain anonymous can share information via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.