Detectives given longer to question murder suspect

Magistrates have today granted detectives more time to question a murder suspect.

The 26-year-old man has been in custody since being arrested yesterday (Tuesday 8 March) in connection with the murder of mother-of-three Clair Ablewhite.

Police at the scene in Colston Bassett. Photo: NEMM

Clair, 47, was murdered in a knife attack in Hall Lane, Colston Bassett, on the evening of Friday 25 February. Her body was discovered on Saturday 26 February.

Officers attended Nottingham Magistrates' Court this afternoon and were granted a further 36 hours to question the suspect.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Griffin, of Nottinghamshire Police, appealed to people to keep coming forward with information, CCTV or dash-cam footage in and around the area on that night.

"We are receiving new information from the public all the time and this has been incredibly helpful to the investigation," he said.

"I'd like to thank everyone who has come forward so far. Every piece of information we receive is like a jigsaw piece that helps us piece together the full chain of events that night.

"Through the progression of witness information, CCTV, forensic and digital investigations we are starting to see in clearer focus.

"So I'd like to urge anyone else who has not yet come forward to get in touch. We understand some people may have been busy or perhaps even felt nervous about speaking to the police about what they may have seen or heard - but I would reassure you that our detectives are extremely professsional and understanding and simply want to gather all the information they can to get justice for Clair and her family."

Police have had a higher presence than normal in Colston Bassett since the murder, as they continue to carry out investigations and provide reassurance to local residents.

ACC Griffin said that local officers would be happy to speak to and support anyone who has any concerns.

Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting a new incident number, 277 of 3 March 2022, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

People can also report information through an online portal, here https://mipp.police.uk/operation/33EM22E38-PO1