The Independent Police Complaints Commission will manage an investigation into the reasons behind the collapse of the Charlene Downes murder trial.

Charlene Downes disappeared in Blackpool in November 2003. Two men stood trial for murder in May 2007 but a jury failed to reach a verdict. A retrial was ordered.

On 9 April 2008 the prosecution decided not to proceed with the case against the two defendants due to issues surrounding evidence. The two men were released subsequently from custody.

Lancashire Constabulary verbally referred the matter to the IPCC on 10 April 2008. The IPCC has now had an opportunity to undertake an assessment of the available information and has decided to manage Lancashire Constabulary’s internal investigation into the matter.

Mike Franklin, IPCC Commissioner for the North West, said: I expect the IPCC managed investigation to give answers to all those involved – the defendants, Lancashire Constabulary and Charlene’s family - as to why the trial could not proceed. The investigation will identify any lessons that can be learned. The IPCC is not reviewing the murder investigation as whole. That is a matter for Lancashire Constabulary."