Search continues for missing Weybread ‘murder victim’ Sylvia Stuart

Peter and Sylvia Stuart

The 69-year-old's husband Peter was found stabbed to death in a stream near woodland close to their home in Mill Lane Weybread, near Diss, on June 3.

The couple were reported missing earlier that day. They were last seen alive at Goodies Farm Shop in Pulham Market on May 29.

Weybread has been left shocked and distressed by the loss of two of its residents.

The Reverend Susan Loxton, rector of St Andrew's Church, Weybread, said Sylvia and her husband Peter would have been in the thoughts of people attending church over the Christmas period.

She said: 'We do pray for all those who are sick or bereaved.'

Revd Loxton said it was 'very strange' Mrs Stuart had still not been found given all the activity that has taken place with farmers having ploughed the fields and the pheasant shooting season being on.

Experts have been called in to assist with efforts to find Mrs Stuart and to advise the inquiry.

But six months after the searches began Suffolk's major investigation team say they are continuing to look for Mrs Stuart.

A Suffolk Constabulary spokesman said: 'Suffolk police are continuing to search for Sylvia Stuart, including active searches where there is information that could lead to her whereabouts.

'National experts have been utilised to assist these searches. Until she is found this work will continue, with officers responding to any new information.

'During the course of the enquiry large areas around Weybread and along routes between Suffolk and Essex were carried out. Officers also carried out site-specific work with the aim of finding her, and this will be ongoing.'

Police have previously said they do not believe Mrs Stuart is still alive.

Ali Qazimaj, from Tilbury, has been charged with charged with murdering the couple. The 43-year-old, is currently remanded in custody.

His trial was originally scheduled for January 16 however, it has been suggested the date could be changed to February 9.