Inspector's body found in wood

The body of a man found in woodland was that of a police inspector accused of murdering his wife, police confirmed last night.

Garry Weddell, 47, was discovered near Broomhills Shooting Club, Markyate, Hertfordshire, yesterday morning, Hertfordshire Police said.

The body of his mother-in-law, Traute Maxfield, 70, was also found yesterday, about 10 miles away at a house in Gustard Wood.

Police said they are keeping an "open mind" as to whether both incidents are linked.

The mother-in-law was reportedly set to give evidence against him at his murder trial later in the year.

It is thought Weddell may have visited her house and killed her before going to the gun club and turning the gun on himself.

A Hertfordshire Police spokeswoman said: "Detectives are appealing for information following the discovery of the body of a male and a female at separate locations yesterday.

"The body of the man was discovered in a field at Broomhills Shooting Club in Markyate, shortly after 11.45 am yesterday.

"The body has now been identified as that of Gary Weddell, 47.

"The body of a woman was also discovered at a property at Gustard Wood, on Saturday afternoon.

"This has now been identified as the body of Traute Maxfield, 70.

"Detectives are keeping an open mind as to whether both incidents linked."

Detective Superintendent Andy Shrives, of Hertfordshire Police, said: "We are keen to trace the movements of Mr Weddell on Friday and Saturday.

"I am also keen to speak to anyone who may have attended Broomhills Shooting Club on these days."

Officers also want to speak to anyone who saw Mr Weddell's car, a metallic green Renault Laguna with the registration NY53ONT.

Sandra Weddell, 44, was found in the garage of their home in Lancot Avenue, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, on January 31, 2007.

Post-mortem tests revealed that a cable tie was used to strangle the mother of three.

Weddell was due to stand trial in May. He had been granted bail with a surety of £200,000.