Internet move in World's End case

Helen Scott and Christine Eadie were murdered in 1977

Police are launching an interactive internet appeal in their latest initiative to crack one of Scotland's most famous unsolved murders.

Two teenage girls were beaten, raped and strangled after they disappeared during a night out at the World's End pub on Edinburgh's Royal Mile 26 years ago.

The bodies of Helen Scott and Christine Eadie, both 17, were found in separate spots six miles apart in East Lothian in October 1977.

Despite a painstaking police investigation the youngsters' killers have never been found.

DNA screening

Lothian and Borders Police have now designed an interactive web page posing questions about the killings in a bid to publicise the case.

The page can be found on the Lothian and Borders Police website and it is believed to be the first time that information on a case has been sought in this way.

Detectives want to trace, in particular, any clothing or personal effects associated with the teenagers.

Next week investigators will begin new DNA screening in connection with the case based on advances in the technology.

World's End investigation Lothian and Borders Police appeal

They have a DNA profile linked to both youngsters of an unknown man whom they believe may have a direct connection to the killings.

They hope to trace the man through voluntary, intelligence-led, DNA testing.

The latest stage of the investigation will be featured on the BBC's Crimewatch programme on Wednesday night.

Detective Inspector Allan Jones, who is leading the current investigation, said: "I am confident whoever is responsible for this has spoken about the events to an associate, friend or loved one.

"For whatever reason, the recipient of this information has not breached this confidence.

"I would ask them now to think again and consider the impact it has had on the families of the girls who have been left to live with their loss.

"I hope this website can serve as a vehicle for someone to come forward with vital information to assist the case."