'Diana was my life': Husband of murdered postmistress speaks

Diana Garbutt, 40, was found dead in the upstairs living quarters of the post office in Melsonby, near Richmond, on March 23.

Her husband Robin, 44, told police he discovered his wife's body after an armed raider confronted him in the store and made off with a substantial amount of cash.

In a statement released through North Yorkshire Police, Mr Garbutt said: "The past week has been extremely difficult and traumatic for me. Di was my life and I am lost without her.

"I would like to express my gratitude for the support of my family, friends and the police. I now ask that the media respect my privacy."

Detective Superintendent Lewis Raw said officers would remain at the post office today and are expected to continue their forensic examinations and searches over the Easter weekend.

He said: "House-to-house inquiries will also continue. The investigation is very complex and it will take some time to complete all avenues of investigation.

"We again express our thanks to the residents of Melsonby for their patience and understanding."

Earlier this week officers carried out an early morning census of traffic travelling into and out of the picturesque village.

The census was carried out exactly one week after Mrs Garbutt was found dead.

Mr Garbutt told police he opened his shop at 4.30am, and was confronted by the masked raider, who was carrying a gun, just after he opened up the post office part of the business at 8.30am.

He said the raider entered the shop just after 8.30am and said "We've got your wife" before demanding cash from the safe.

The robber then left with a substantial amount of cash in a holdall and Mr Garbutt went upstairs, where he found his wife, who had died from severe head injuries. Police said she had not been shot.

The store was targeted by armed robbers in March last year when two men, one armed with what appeared to be a handgun, threatened staff and made off with stamps and a large amount of cash.