Man held over Claudia’s disappearance

UK police are searching a house in York after arresting a 59-year-old man on suspicion of murdering Claudia Lawrence.

Ms Lawrence, 35, was reported missing after failing to turn up for her shift as a chef at the University of York on March 19 in 2009.

Police officers have reportedly removed items from the York house which may prove to be evidence in the case.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “The investigation team would like to stress that Claudia has not been found. Police cannot rule out the possibility of further arrests in the future as the review continues.

“Detectives investigating the disappearance of Claudia Lawrence have this morning arrested a 59-year-old man from York on suspicion of murder.

“Forensic examinations and searches are being conducted which are expected to be ongoing over a number of days. A car has also been seized as part of the inquiries.”

Forensic officers are at the property following the arrest, which the Lawrence family have been notified about.

After a long-running investigation drew a blank new information has come to light following a cold case review last October.

In March of this year new lines of enquiry were revealed, with officers discussing new forensic information, such as unidentified fingerprints and DNA at Ms Lawrence’s house.