Detective who helped to track down Yorkshire Ripper dies aged 83

A former detective who helped to track down the Yorkshire Ripper has died at the age of 83.

John Stainthorpe, who rose to to the rank of Detective Chief Superintendent with West Yorkshire Police, had suffered a stroke in December.

Mr Stainthorpe never believed Peter Sutcliffe's claim to be mentally ill, saying he was just a "plain, evil killer."

As well as being involved in the search for Sutcliffe, Mr Stainthorpe took part in many other major inquiries during his 40-year career. They included the search for serial child killer Robert Black who was convicted of kidnapping and murdering four young girls - including Sarah Harper from Morley.

Mr Stainthorpe leaves behind a widow and two sons.