British Transport Police (BTP) have dismissed criticisms from the family of an autistic man over their handling of his death.

Rodney Larsh, 20, who lived at a care home in Chingford, went missing shortly after 10am on Christmas Eve and was killed by a train while walking on tracks at Shenfield station the same day.

Despite his body being discovered, were not informed until three days later and his family continued to search for him.

Mr Larsh’s sisters Jessica Larsh, 25, and Rosemary Nkestiah, 31, said they were repeatedly told by officers that 'things were slower' and could take longer because of ‘the time of year'.

But a BTP spokesman said the delay for informing the family was due to the extent of the injuries Mr Larsh had suffered.

He said: "The delay in telling the family was because we had not formally identified the person hit by the train until three days later.

"Mr Larsh was hit by a moving train at 60 mph and had no I.D on him when his body was discovered.

"The fact it occurred over Christmas made no difference at all, as it does take time to carry out DNA tests."

However, the Metropolitan Police have admitted there was a delay in informing the family of Mr Larsh's death.

A spokeswoman said: "We are aware of an issue which resulted in a delay in informing the family of Rodney Larsh of the discovery of his body.

"This is being looked into and we are in contact with the family about this matter."

The sister's dispute this claim and say they have not had any contact from police since December 30.