Claudia Lawrence murder: Three men arrested on suspicion of murdering York University chef

Lawrence disappeared six years ago after leaving for work

Photo issued by North Yorkshire Police of Claudia Lawrence, as officers carried out searches of an alleyway outside her home on 25 February, 2015

Three people have been arrested in connection with the murder of Claudia Lawrence, a York University chef who disappeared in 2009.

North Yorkshire Police said in a statement the men are aged in their 50s and from the York area.

Their arrests come after another man from the local area aged in his 50s was arrested on 23 March. He has been bailed as police enquiries continue.

Ms Lawrence, 35, was reported missing by her father on 20 March 2009 after she left for work in the early hours on 19 March, but failed to arrive.

Detective Superintendent Dai Malyn, the senior investigating officer in the Claudia Lawrence inquiry, urged members of the public not to identify the men who have been detained.

"This is to ensure the investigation and legal process are not compromised or potentially damaged in any way," he said.

"I urge everyone to again show restraint and patience while we carry out these very important enquiries."

The force stressed that Ms Lawrence has not been found. A 60-year-old man was arrested in connection with the case last year but was later released without charge.

Ms Lawrence's family has been notified of the arrests.