Police hunt husband after newlywed strangled

Detectives investigating the murder of a woman whose husband has vanished said today that she was strangled to death.

The body of newlywed Vicky Roberts, 25, was found dumped in a garage at her home in Runcorn, Cheshire, two days ago.

A manhunt is under way for her husband Michael Roberts, 26.

A Cheshire Police spokeswoman said: "Her death is being treated as suspicious, and a post-mortem to determine the cause of death took place yesterday.

"Early indications are that the cause of death was strangulation, although further tests will need to be carried out."

Detectives released a wedding day photograph of the couple, who married six months ago, while renewing their appeal for Mr Roberts to contact them.

Police discovered the body in a garage at the couple's home in Partington Square, Runcorn, Cheshire, after being called to the property shortly after 9pm on Thursday.

Cheshire Police were contacted by the victim's father who was concerned he had not heard from his daughter.

A police spokeswoman confirmed the death is being treated as murder.

Photographs of the couple's wedding celebrations on June 21 this year were posted on Mr Roberts's Facebook page.

They lived on the top floor of a modern three-storey block of flats on a newly built estate.

Their home was sealed off for forensic examinations yesterday.

A young couple, who did not wished to be named and who live on the ground floor of the property, said: "Michael and Vicky had lived upstairs for about a year.

"Mike was in our house for half an hour yesterday before it all happened."

Relatives of Mrs Roberts declined to comment at the family home in Warrington.

Detectives are keen to speak to Mr Roberts, who is described as white, 6'2 tall, with black spiky hair, and black eyebrows.

He occasionally wears small square shaped black-rimmed spectacles. He is of very slim build, with brown eyes.

He was last seen wearing a black 3/4 length duffle coat, dark grey trousers with pin stripes, and black patent shoes. However, he may well have changed his clothing.

Detective Inspector Andrew Smith of Cheshire Police said: "I would ask Michael, if he hears this appeal, to make contact with police so that we can speak with him.

"It is several days since Victoria's body was found and you have not made contact with your family, who are now very concerned regarding your well being.

"You can contact any police station and speak with any police officer, or directly contact myself and my team on 0845 458 0000. It is important that we speak with you."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cheshire Police Major Investigation Team on 0845 458 000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.