Crimestoppers has announced a reward of up to £20,000 for information that leads to the conviction of the person or people responsible for the murder of a man whose remains were discovered in Clocaenog Forest in November 2015.

The case — often referred to as that of the “Clocaenog Forest Man” — remains one of North Wales’s most puzzling unsolved mysteries more than 10 years after detectives first began their investigation.

The remains were found by two brothers, Andrew and Mark Middle, who were camping in the forest near Pentre-llyn-Cymmer while attending the Wales Rally GB in November 2015. Mark initially thought a moss-covered object on the forest floor was a rock, before realising it was a human skull. A subsequent search recovered the majority of the skeleton.

Forensic examinations suggest the man was born before 1950, likely of Caucasian descent, and stood between 5ft 8in and 5ft 10.5in tall with a well-built frame and past back issues. Dental analysis found extensive work carried out in the UK between the 1980s and early 2000s, but despite this and other specialist examinations, his identity remains unknown.

Investigators believe the man died between 2004 and 2011, and that his death was the result of significant injuries consistent with a violent attack. Police treat the discovery as a murder investigation, though when and where the killing took place is still unclear.

In a renewed effort to solve the case, Crimestoppers — an independent charity that works anonymously with the public — is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. The reward is available for three months, and is due to expire on 16 April 2026. Members of the public can contact Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111 — anonymously, 24/7.

Hayley Fry, National Manager for Wales at Crimestoppers, said: “Someone knows who was responsible for this man’s death. His family and friends, wherever they are, deserve answers and justice. We’re appealing to anyone who has information to contact Crimestoppers. You can tell us what you know whilst staying completely anonymously. We don’t want your name, just what you know. Every piece of information could make a difference.”

Police have also released facial reconstructions showing how the man might have looked in later life in the hope of triggering recognition from the public. Despite years of forensic work — including DNA profiling, dental record analysis and clothing examination — the mystery remains unsolved.

North Wales Police continues to work on the case with support from specialist agencies, but say public assistance could be the breakthrough needed to finally name the man and bring those responsible to justice.

If you recognise the Clocaenog Forest Man or have information connected to the case, you’re urged to contact Crimestoppers — your anonymity is guaranteed and you could help end a decade-long cold case.