PEH worker's body 'hidden under leaves'

A BODY discovered yesterday apparently partially hidden under a heap of fallen leaves was that of a missing hospital worker. Elaine Le Sauvage, 49, disappeared after finishing work at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital at 2pm on Thursday and was reported missing later that evening.

Police have refused to answer any questions about the incident, although there are a number of theories about what might have led to her death.

It is understood there were no visible marks on Mrs Le Sauvage, but police have not ruled out foul play.

One possibility is that she was injured or even killed elsewhere and the body left near the PEH's Oberlands entrance, where it was found 18 hours after she finished work there.

Police cordoned off a section of La Rue de La Corbinerie, where she was discovered lying by a field gate opposite the rear entrance.

They also visited her home at Rue Cauchez, St Martin's, yesterday.

Detectives are tight-lipped about the discovery and have not confirmed whether they are treating the circumstances surrounding her death as suspicious.

Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Taylor, who is heading the investigation, said: 'We have commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances of Elaine's death and will be working with a Home Office forensic pathologist to examine the cause of death.'

Although officers called a press conference yesterday, they refused to take questions and would not comment on a suggestion that she was a victim of a hit-and-run accident.

DCI Taylor would only say: 'On behalf of the police force, I would like to extend our sympathies to Elaine's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.'

Mrs Le Sauvage, who worked in the pharmacy department, was a regular sight around the building.

One former porter described the devoted mother as a 'lovely, quiet lady'.

Police have interviewed workers on the night shift and speculation in the hospital suggested that she was involved in a motor accident.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone who thinks they might have seen Mrs Le Sauvage after 2pm on Thursday is urged to contact the police incident room on 715341.

She is described as being 5ft 2in., of slim build and with dark, shoulder-length hair. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing dark clothing.