Family heartache over Emma death

Emma Caldwell's uncle said she had her whole life ahead of her

The family of murdered prostitute Emma Caldwell have spoken publicly for the first time about her death as police intensify their hunt for her killer.

The body of the 27-year-old was found on 7 May in woods near Biggar, South Lanarkshire.

Emma's uncle, Jim Coyle, said the tragedy that had befallen them could happen to any family.

Mr Coyle said Emma loved horses and the countryside before she became embroiled in drugs and vice.

She was reported missing from Glasgow in early April and police have appealed to speak to two people seen talking to her the night she vanished.

Speaking at a media conference at Strathclyde Police headquarters, Mr Coyle said Emma's family was still trying to come to terms with her death.

Not long ago, Emma was a beautiful and healthy young girl with her whole life ahead of her Jim Coyle Emma's uncle

"Not long ago, Emma was a beautiful and healthy young girl with her whole life ahead of her," he said.

"She became addicted to drugs after having difficulty coming to terms with the death of her older sister Karen.

"We believe what happened to Emma could happen to any family and we wouldn't wish this feeling brought upon anybody."

She was last seen in the Govanhill area of the city where she had been staying at a local women's hostel.

Emma was spotted walking alone along Butterbiggins Road, towards Victoria Road, at about 2300 BST on 4 April and was not seen again until her body was found.

More than 20 men have visited a police incident caravan set up in Govanhill, where Emma worked.

Detectives have renewed their appeal for all of Emma's former acquaintances to come forward and said door-to-door inquiries were continuing.

They are also examining CCTV footage, speaking to taxi drivers and other prostitutes.

Detective Superintendent Willie Johnston said: "I would be confident there may be other males who are thinking about coming forward and I would urge them to do so, or they run the risk of us coming out to either their business premises or their home."