Body of murdered antiques dealer exhumed

The body of an antiques dealer who was murdered in 1994 was exhumed today after detectives received "significant information" during a review of the case.

West Mercia Constabulary said tests would now be carried out on the remains of Trevor Bradley with the aim of establishing how he died.

Mr Bradley, from Ludlow, Shropshire, was found dead in his burned out car in a field close to the village of Melverley, north west Shropshire, on April 27, 1994.

Although Mr Bradley, 53, lived in Ludlow, he is said to have had strong connections with Shrewsbury and was also well known in Leominster, Herefordshire, where he regularly visited a bingo hall.

His body was disinterred at Ludlow Cemetery today and is expected to be reburied on Friday.

Detective Inspector Andy Parsons, who is leading the review into the murder, said the victim's family had been kept fully informed of developments in the investigation.

The officer added: "Significant information has come to light as a result of our continuing investigations and we decided it was necessary to take this unusual step to further our inquiries.

"Our thoughts are with Mr Bradley's family and friends and we hope that the further tests to be carried out will go some way towards explaining exactly how he died and bringing whoever is responsible for his death to justice."

The cemetery in Henley Rd, Ludlow, will remain closed to visitors until Friday.

Officers put up a £10,000 reward in 2007 to encourage people to come forward with information about the death.

Anyone who has information concerning the murder and who has not already spoken to officers is urged to contact the incident room on 01952 216444 or the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.