Tas police identify skeletal remains

Skeletal remains found in north Tasmanian bushland are likely to belong to man reported missing more than 40 years ago.

Police on Thursday said the remains, found on September 22 beside a highway at Dilston, are believed to be those of Wilfred Pearson Proctor who was 61-years-old when reported missing in 1971.

"An investigation is underway to confirm the identity of the human remains and the cause and circumstances surrounding the death," acting Inspector Bob Baker said.