An investigation linking serial killer Levi Bellfield with other crimes has closed, ruling out any connection with the Chillenden murders.

Lin and Megan Russell were bludgeoned to death 20 years ago on a remote country lane near Canterbury.

Michael Stone, from Gillingham, was convicted of the murders and is serving three life sentences in jail, but it has long-been speculated that Bellfield was in fact the killer.

He resembled an original photofit issued following the crime, sparking speculation he could be involved.

However, a statement released by the Met Police ruled out any possible link.

Detectives had been co-ordinating an inquiry across 10 forces after receiving information in early 2015.

A spokesman said: "It has taken a considerable amount of time and police resources to conduct the investigation.

"All lines of inquiry have now been exhausted and the decision has been taken to close this investigation as there is no evidence to link the individual to any case for which he has not already been convicted."

Bellfield was convicted in 2011 of the murder of 13-year-old Milly Dowler, who had disappeared on her way home from school in Walton-on-Thames in 2002.

When found guilty, Bellfield was already serving life sentences for the murders of Marsha McDonnell, 19, and Amélie Delagrange, 22, in West London.

Both died of severe head injuries after being hit with a blunt instrument in 2003 and 2004 respectively.

The Met spokesman added: "We have remained in close liaison with a number of families throughout the course of our inquiries, and have made them aware of this outcome.

"This has understandably been a very difficult time for them and we would ask that the privacy of individuals' is respected.

"Bellfield has been informed of the outcome."