Man wanted over seaside murder spotted on CCTV at bargain store

It is thought John Heald was caught on camera at B&M Bargains, Mexborough, at 4.15pm on Saturday, hours after Bei Carter was found dead.

The image was released by South Yorkshire Police, who say they have had more than 200 calls about Heald, 53, and details of several potential sightings around the Rotherham area since the investigation began.

Heald is wanted in connection with the murder of Mrs Carter, who was found dead at Morayland Hotel, Marshall Avenue, Bridlington, late on Friday night.

He is also wanted by South Yorkshire Police in connection with a serious sexual offence in Sheffield on July 13.

South Yorkshire Police handed out hundreds of flyers to football fans attending a pre-season friendly between Rotherham United and Nottingham Forest at the New York Stadium.

There was also a digital display van featuring his picture, which was seen by up to than 3,600 fans who were at the match.

Heald is 5ft 11in, of slim build, with blue eyes and short mousey brown hair. His right ear is pierced and he has tattoos on his hands and arms.

He has dots tattooed on the knuckles of both hands as well as a horse on his left hand and a mermaid and an eagle on his right arm.

Senior officers this week outlined the police operation at Wath-upon-Dearne, South Yorkshire, where the investigation is focused following potential sightings of Heald in the Rotherham and Doncaster areas, where he has lived for most of his life.

Chief Superintendent Jason Harwin of South Yorkshire Police said: “We have released this image in the hope that it will jog someone’s memory and encourage them to get in touch with police if they have seen this man.”

Anyone who sees Heald is asked to call 999 immediately or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.