Claudia's father clears air with murder-hunt police

North Yorkshire Police mounted a strong defence of the handling of the case after the force faced swingeing criticism earlier this month that the public had not been kept updated about the investigation.

However, Peter Lawrence, the father of the missing York University chef, met last week with Det Supt Ray Galloway, who is leading the investigation, to ensure there was no ill-feeling.

Martin Dales, a close friend of Mr Lawrence who has been acting as his spokesman, claimed police had been "uncivil, rude, abrupt and dismissive" towards people trying to help the inquiry.

But Mr Lawrence distanced himself from the remarks and claimed that he did not share the views expressed by Mr Dales.

Speaking at a Press conference yesterday to mark the 14-month anniversary since his daughter's disappearance, Mr Lawrence said the meeting with Mr Galloway had resolved the issue.

Mr Lawrence added: "While the police and I are never going to see eye to eye all the time, we meet regularly to talk things through. We are never going to find our views with regards to the investigation coincide 100 per cent, but by and large, we work it out together as our aims are the same – to find Claudia and pray for her safe return."

The Yorkshire Post revealed earlier this month that the National Policing Improvement Agency has been commissioned by the North Yorkshire force to again carry out an external review.

However, senior officers rejected the criticisms of the investigation and calls for a review by a civilian watchdog.

Chief Supt Iain Spittal, North Yorkshire Police's Chief of Staff, claimed no complaints had been made regarding incivility or rudeness by staff.

Despite the furore, Mr Lawrence confirmed yesterday that he is continuing to work closely with Mr Dales, who was also present at the Press conference.

Speaking about his family's 14-month ordeal, Mr Lawrence added: "I will never give up hope, but this situation does not get any easier. Whatever the resolution, we need to have one.

"My plea, as always, is for the public to continue with their support and provide information to the police."

Miss Lawrence was last seen walking near her Heworth Road home in York after finishing work on March 18 last year.