Missing Claudia's honour defended

Claudia Lawrence's case is being treated as suspected murder

A friend of Claudia Lawrence has dismissed claims that the missing York woman could have had affairs with up to 40 married men.

Suzy Cooper said reports about 35-year-old Ms Lawrence's private life were "wholly inaccurate".

Ms Cooper, who has known the University of York chef for about two years, said she was speaking out for her friend who was "unable to defend herself".

Ms Lawrence has been missing since leaving work on 18 March.

'Crime victim'

Police are treating her disappearance as suspected murder.

Ms Cooper said of her friend: "She is happy, funny, extremely caring, and would never wish harm on anyone.

"She may have had a couple of affairs in her 35 years but this should not detract from the kind, loyal, and loving person she is.

"The allegations that she has had 30 to 40 affairs with married men are wholly inaccurate."

Ms Cooper added: "It should not be forgotten that Claudia has neither committed a crime, nor has she invited this speculation about her life.

"It is my absolute belief that she has been taken by someone - it is therefore she who is the victim of a crime and she does not deserve to have her character judged and disrespected in this way."