Ex-wife's plea to murder suspect

Police have launched a national manhunt for Mark Hobson

The ex-wife of double murder suspect Mark Hobson has urged him to give himself up to police.

Kay Hobson, speaking to the News of the World, said: "Mark, I urge you to turn yourself in. Many people love you."

Mr Hobson is wanted in connection with the murders of twin sisters in Cambelsforth and an elderly couple in Strensall, both in North Yorkshire.

The vicar at St Mary the Virgin Church, Strensall, held prayers for the victims in a service on Sunday.

Kay Hobson was married to the former binman for five years and they had a daughter together, the News of the World reported.

You must contact the police or a solicitor Kay Hobson

She claims he walked out on the family after turning to drink and drugs, the paper said.

Ms Hobson was quoted in the paper as saying: "Mark, I urge you to turn yourself in. Many people love you dearly.

"They will all be there to support you, but please you must contact the police or a solicitor."

Mr Hobson has been missing since Sunday, when the bodies of his girlfriend, Claire Sanderson, 27, and her twin sister, Diane, were found dead in his flat.

Canals alert

He has also been linked to the deaths of pensioners James Britton, 80, and his wife Joan, 82.

They were found dead at their home in Strensall, just hours after the twins were discovered 25 miles away.

Police are appealing to narrowboat owners to stay alert as Mr Hobson is known to be interested in canals and police think he could be using towpaths or hiding in a boat.

An inshore rescue boat is being used look for objects in the River Ouse in Selby, and to examine crafts moored along the riverbank.

Joan and James Britton had been viciously assaulted

Police also stopped more than 600 cars in a series of road checks in the early hours of Sunday, with more being carried out throughout the day in York.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said there had been another 437 calls from members of the public in the 24 hours up to 0700 BST.

Dep Ch Con Roger Baker said: "The support we are getting from the public is very heartening and it is re-doubling this force's determination."

About 60 worshippers gathered in Strensall on Sunday to remember James and Joan Britton and Diane and Claire Sanderson.

The Rev Martin Harrison said the village had been left shocked by the events.

"Police cars outside the home of Mr and Mrs Britton have acted as a terrible sign that a week ago this very day wickedness and evil visited our village, possibly evil in the vilest and in its most cowardly form.

"Today we remember the past week. We pray for Mr and Mrs Britton, their family and friends, also remembering Claire and Diane Sanderson and their relatives as we ask for you to comfort them at this difficult time."