Vital clue ‘can still solve case of missing Claudia’

Detective Superintendent Ray Galloway revealed yesterday that officers are continuing to sift through potential leads in the inquiry as intelligence is still filtering in to North Yorkshire Police.

But he said key evidence is still needed and urged anyone with information to come forward to aid the inquiry.

Det Supt Galloway said: “Information continues to come in and is being analysed by detectives, but we are still seeking that crucial breakthrough that will unravel this most complex of investigations.

“It is still not too late for people to come forward if they think they may be able to help. If you feel reluctant to assist the police for whatever reason, then I ask that you think of the devastation and heartache that Claudia’s family have endured every day for three long years.

“Someone out there knows what happened to Claudia. It is now time to do the right thing and help to bring a measure of closure for her loved ones.”

This weekend will mark the third anniversary of Miss Lawrence’s disappearance and Det Supt Galloway paid tribute to the “dignified courage and strength” shown by her family and friends.

He added: “The third anniversary of Claudia Lawrence’s disappearance and suspected murder is a very poignant and emotional occasion for everyone connected to the inquiry. For Claudia’s family and friends, it is another traumatic milestone when the full sense of their loss and helplessness comes to the fore in a very public way.

“I would again like to stress my sincere admiration of their dignified courage and strength throughout the investigation. They know that we will never give up on the search for Claudia and those responsible for her tragic disappearance.”

Miss Lawrence was aged 35 when she was last seen walking near her home in Heworth Road in York on March 18, 2009. Detectives upgraded the missing person inquiry to a murder investigation the following month.

But the case has been hampered by Miss Lawrence’s tangled love life, which included relationships with married men who have been unwilling to disclose information to police.

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