‘If Manish wants to go on record refuting that, I’m more than happy to keep a slot on my show open for him on Monday morning,’ Richardson added.

The police and crime commissioner could not be reached for comment.

Meanwhile, the school at the centre of the deepening scandal has issued a statement attempting to reassure parents and staff, insisting that pupils are being shielded from any potential impact on their well-being, and that lessons and school routines will continue as normal.

‘What happened to Benjamin Draper was a tragedy,’ the statement reads, ‘and everyone at Beaconsfield College wishes to express their deepest condolences to Benjamin’s family. We can confirm that Lance Wheeler is an alumnus of this school, but so far we have not been contacted regarding the circumstances of his death, and do not feel it appropriate to issue any further comment at this time. We will, however, continue to offer our full cooperation to the police.’

A memorial service for Ben had been scheduled to take place in the school’s chapel on Sunday morning, and a spokesperson for the school has confirmed that the event is to proceed as planned. Attendance will reportedly be by invitation only, and the grounds will be closed to the general public.

Callum Richardson is expected to be among the guests.

• Coming, ready or not … A children’s game turns deadly. TURN TO PAGE 5 for the full background on Ben Draper’s ‘hide-and-seek’ disappearance
• Callum Richardson: Pundit, politician … prime minister? Will scandal derail a divisive figure’s attempts to take charge of the country? TURN TO PAGE 9

Saturday 26 October, 10.21 a.m.

‘How long have you known, Detective Inspector?’

When Fleet was finally admitted into Burton’s office, the superintendent was reclined in the seat behind his desk, his hands braced against the arms of his chair and an array of printed newspapers on the surface before him. One, Fleet noticed, was open to the same story he’d skimmed himself in between pacing the waiting area outside. He’d ended up tossing the paper aside in frustration.

‘Well?’ said Burton – but when Fleet tried to speak, he held up a hand. ‘And do me the courtesy of not trying to deny it. I know you’re chummy with Randolph Green, and I know full well that he would have had a quiet word with you about the real cause of Lance Wheeler’s death well in advance of submitting his report.’ The superintendent leaned forward. ‘Didn’t I instruct you right at the start of this to keep me abreast of any developments? Before I read about them in the press? So if you have any misconceptions that I’m going to permit you to remain in charge of this investigation, and you’ve come here to grovel for forgiveness, you can—’

‘She’s missing, Roger.’

Burton frowned at the interruption. ‘What?’