Husband held in post office murder inquiry

THE husband of a postmistress who was found dead at her village store in North Yorkshire was arrested yesterday in connection with her murder.

Detectives were continuing to question Robin Garbutt, 44, yesterday evening.

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

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North Yorkshire Police confirmed a 44-year-old man from Richmondshire had been arrested in connection with the murder and suspected robbery of the post office.

Detective Superintendent Lewis Raw, who is leading the inquiry, said: "The tragic death of Diana Garbutt three weeks ago has had a significant impact on people living in Melsonby and Richmondshire as a whole.

"It has also captured the concern and sympathy of the wider community due to the high level of media coverage of this case.

"I would again like to offer my sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support and understanding local people have given the police throughout this very complex investigation."

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Mrs Garbutt's body was discovered at the village store and post office, which she ran with her husband, just after 8.30am on March 23. She had died from severe head injuries.

Police launched a murder investigation and issued a description of a robber who had apparently broken into the post office and stolen a substantial amount of cash.

Mr and Mrs Garbutt are understood to have moved to the village seven years ago from the York area and had been married about the same length of time.