Human remains found at River Dee identified as Catherine Gowing

Human remains found on the banks of a river have been identified as those of missing vet Catherine Gowing, police said today.

The remains were found near the River Dee in Higher Ferry, Chester, on Friday.

This comes after more remains were found in a shallow pool in a field in Sealand, North Wales, last Wednesday which have also been confirmed as being those of Ms Gowing.

Police said the search for further remains would continue.

The vet, originally from Clonlee, Co Offaly, in the Irish Republic, was last seen on Friday October 12 at a supermarket near her home in New Brighton, Flintshire, North Wales.

A 46-year old man from Gynnedd, North Wales, has since been charged with her murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Pierce said: "The results have been passed to Catherine's family.

"As you can imagine this is a very difficult time for them. They continue to be supported by specialist officers and are being kept fully updated with the progress of the investigation."

Mr Pierce repeated his appeal for any information regarding any sightings of Catherine Gowing's Irish-registered Renault Clio, 00D 99970, and a black Volvo S40, registration AG58 JHE, since Friday October 12.

Police are particularly interested in sightings in the Sealand and River Dee areas.

Mr Pierce added: "The search for further remains and any evidence to assist this investigation continues and I would again ask the local community if you have seen any suspicious activity or person in Manor Road, Sealand, or on the banks of the River Dee, or have any information which may assist our investigation, to contact police on 101."

Ms Gowing was reported missing when she failed to arrive for work at Evans Veterinary Practice in Mold, Flintshire, on Monday October 15.

Later that week police recovered her car which had been torched and abandoned in a disused quarry.

Clive Sharp, 46, of no fixed address, has been charged with murder and was remanded in custody until January 7 when he is due to enter his plea.

PA