Claudia Lawrence: Police search gravel pits in hunt for missing woman
Our reporter Julie Harrison looks back now at this historic case that's eluded detectives for 12 years
Police are continuing to search a popular fishing spot in North Yorkshire as they investigate the suspected murder of Claudia Lawrence.
A former gravel mine in Sand Hutton, which has since filled up with water and is used now for fishing, has been cordoned off at the centre of the search for Claudia Lawrence's body
The detective leading that search confirmed today that underwater divers and forensic police officers were at the scene.
Detective Superintendent Wayne Fox issues an update on the "disappearance and suspected murder" of Claudia Lawrence:
One resident of the area, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "You don't expect anything like that around here, but I guess you don't expect it anywhere really.
"A lot of people around here and throughout York have been aware of the story since she disappeared. I imagine people (in the community) will be shocked.
"If they find her, and it brings closure to the family, then it's got to be a good thing. At least they will know what's happened to her. It's just sad all round."
The 35-year-old was reported missing on Wednesday March 18 2009 after she failed to turn up for a 6am shift at work at the University of York.
She spoke to her parents, Joan and Peter Lawrence, separately on the phone on Wednesday evening, and seemed to be in good spirits.
Despite a high profile investigation and extensive media coverage, her sudden disappearance has remained a mystery.
North Yorkshire Police has conducted two investigations and questioned nine people in relation to her disappearance and suspected murder but no charges have ever been brought.
Police believe Claudia was murdered. Her family have welcomed changes in the investigation team over the years, and a review of the original inquiry.
Her father Peter spent years 12 years campaigning for the Guardianship (Missing Persons) Bill, also known as Claudia's Law.
It allows relatives to take control of their missing loved ones' financial matters if they have been missing for 90 days or more.
Claudia's Law came into force in July 2019. Mr Lawrence, a retired solicitor who worked tirelessly on the campaign, was awarded an OBE for his work in 2018.
Speaking at the time, Mr Lawrence said it was an "absolutely marvellous feeling" to see the proposals take a step closer to becoming law.
The 74-year-old died earlier this year without ever knowing what happened to his daughter.