Graeme Jarman arrested in Filey over murder of pensioner Judith Richardson

Northumbria Police said the 47-year-old was detained after staff at a library in Filey alerted officers on Saturday afternoon.

Detectives have been wanting to talk to Jarman, who is from Durham, in connection with the killing of 77-year-old spinster Miss Richardson who was found dead at her home on Saint Wilfrid’s Road, Hexham, Northumberland, on the evening of Friday August 19.

A police spokesman said officers were called to the library at 3pm by staff who reported a possible sighting of Jarman.

Detective Chief Superintendent Neil Adamson said: “I would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance during this investigation. It has been their support which has made this arrest possible. I would also like to take the opportunity to mention the unwavering support we have received from police forces across the country.

“It is to them, as much as to the officers of Northumbria, Cleveland and Durham I owe my thanks.”

Detectives have said Miss Richardson, who lived alone and never married, was beaten to death with a hammer.

She was found dead in the hallway of her stone-built terraced house in sought-after St Wilfrid’s Road on the edge of the town centre.

Her handbag was found dumped 25 miles away in Newcastle.

Officers said today they have received hundreds of calls offering help from around the country.

Miss Richardson was a regular sight in Hexham walking her dog

Yesterday, her niece said: “We are a very private family and we are finding all of this so horrific. We thank everyone for all the lovely condolences and good wishes that we have received and sincerely thank everyone who has helped the police in any way.”

Last month her family released a statement which said: “This has been a devastating loss and we are all in a state of shock. Judith was a wonderful person and we all loved her dearly.”

Jarman is being held in custody.