Police are continuing their search for clues in the Madeleine McCann case in the wasteland near the resort where she disappeared.
It has been reported that experts drafted in from the UK are carrying out scientific analysis of the “non-organic” items - believed to include 'scraps of clothing'.
Uncovered in a concealed chamber, covered with corrugated iron sheeting, police are now said to be running forensic tests on items found beside or in the 'hidden pit'.
A local source reportedly said: “It could be days before the significance of the items is known.
"Several are being analysed by the British team.”
Scotland Yard, however, have refused to comment on the possible development, saying it was not giving a “running commentary” of the investigation.
UK sniffer dogs - the same who helped to search for 5-year-old April Jones - are also still at work in the scrubland, which is 300 metres from the apartment where Madeleine disappeared in May 2007.
Search teams are continuing the search the scrubland in Praia Da Luz, Portugal, inspecting sewers and lifting at least three manhole covers as they do so.
Madeleine’s parents Kate, 46, and Gerry, 45, are being kept informed throughout the work and are said to be bracing themselves for “significant news”.
Maddie was nearly four years old when she vanished on 3rd May 2007 from her parents' holiday apartment while they dined with friends in a nearby tapas restaurant.
The search continues.