A COMMUNITY has been left "terrified" following the news that a man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering of 13-year-old girl.

Residents and councillors expressed their horror after hearing Redbridge Community School student Lucy McHugh's body was found in woodland at Southampton Sports Centre.

Neighbours of the teenager, who was last seen at her home on Mansel Road East before she was discovered on Thursday morning, described the "raw" emotions felt by the community.

One couple, who did not want to be named, said: "We’ve got an 11-year-old similar to the same age.

"He used to go out that way down the Sports Centre but we are not letting him go at the moment - it’s too raw.”

Paul Hatcher, another resident of Mansel Road East, said: "It’s very sad the whole situation. It’s terrifying, I can’t make any sense of it.”

Marta Olszak, 36, a leisure centre supervisor added: “It’s just so cruel. I have a younger sister. I just last feel sorry for the family.”

Another neighbour who did not want to be named said: “It’s a bit close to home. It’s a shock.”

A 24-year-old man remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of murder and having sexual activity with a child.

Reflecting on the news, Redbridge ward councillor Lee Whitbread offered his condolences to the family, adding: “It’s a very, very sad situation.

“My thoughts go out to the family. I just hope that justice is done and that whoever is responsible for this found. It’s truly awful.

“I hope that anybody who has any information out there comes forward.”