Family hope in reopened 1970 case

Lorraine Jacob was murdered in Liverpool in 1970

The family of a woman murdered 38 years ago are pleased by recent developments which may bring new clues about her killer, their solicitor has said.

Lorraine Jacob, 19, was found dead in Liverpool in September 1970. She had been sexually assaulted and strangled.

Police reopened the case after finding cuttings and notes about the murder, at the home of 78-year-old Harvey Richardson, who died of cancer.

Her family hope new witnesses may now come forward, said lawyer Robin Makin.

"It's nearly 40 years ago but obviously people are still alive who were around at the time who might have some useful information," he added.

"The family are very anxious that whatever somebody knows, that may be of some help, should be given to police as soon as possible."

Missing clothing

Lorraine was last seen walking alone in Liverpool along Pilgrim Street towards Hardman Street late at night on 1 September 1970.

Her body was found early the following day by refuse workers in a back alley behind the Young Women's Christian Association in Rodney Street.

Newspaper cuttings about her murder were found at the house

Some of her clothing was missing.

Merseyside Police announced on Monday that they were reopening the case following the death of Mr Richardson, of Wigan, Greater Manchester.

Police found a handwritten note at his home containing details of the murder, plus a gun and an item of clothing.

Mr Richardson died of cancer on 9 February in a hospice in Wigan.

Police were then made aware of the items found at his home in Reservoir Street, Aspull.

Detectives are now appealing for anyone who knew him, particularly at the time of the murder when he was living in Liverpool, to come forward.