Husband held over body in wheelie bin

A man was arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the death of his wife, whose body was found dumped in a wheelie bin, police said today.

Peter Wallner, 33, was stopped by officers at Gatwick Airport shortly after 8pm yesterday. He is being interviewed at a police station in Surrey.

The body of his wife Melanie, 32, was discovered hidden among rubbish outside a suburban home in Cobham, Surrey, on Saturday afternoon.

Dental records confirmed Mrs Wallner's identity yesterday afternoon and her next of kin were informed overnight.

Police said it isunclear when she died.

Detective Chief Inspector Maria Woodall said: "We have received varying accounts from Melanie's family, friends and neighbours about her recent history.

"Some had thought she moved away from Surrey in the last few years and others believed she may have died in 2006.

"I am now asking for people's help in building a picture of the last years of her life.

"Specifically, I would like to hear from anyone we haven't yet spoken to who has seen Melanie since August 2006 or people who knew her well shortly before this date.

"The response to our investigation - both locally in Cobham and further afield - has been very supportive and we have received many useful phone calls.

"Melanie's family are obviously very shocked at this time and we are determined, with the public's help, to find them the truth about her death."

Forensic experts are continuing a search of the address in Hamilton Avenue and officers have extended their house-to-house inquiries.