Police reconstruct widow's murder

A reconstruction featuring a man wearing a hooded top seen near the scene

Police hunting the killer of a 90-year-old widow have staged a reconstruction of the moments leading up to her murder one week on.

Detectives hope it will lead them to a hooded man seen leaving Elsie Hughes' north Wales home on the night that she was attacked.

Officers said they were encouraged by the response, but needed more help.

Mrs Hughes was battered to death in her home at Abermorddu, near Wrexham, last Thursday night.

The reconstruction took place between 1700 BST and 2100 BST.

On Thursday, police released an e-fit of the man they want to question in connection with Mrs Hughes' death.

MAN'S DESCRIPTION 5' 10", medium build 25-30 years old Short, dark hair, with a fringe Light coloured hooded top Dark tracksuit bottoms White trainers No distinctive accent Softly spoken

Detectives said they were still trying to trace several people who they believe may have vital information.

The murder investigation team wants to talk to a couple in a people carrier who may have spoken to the hooded suspect when they stopped at nearby takeaway Kowloon House, in Harwarden Road.

Detective Chief Superintendent Ross Duffield, who is leading the inquiry, said: "We are repeating our appeal for this couple to come forward as it is possible they may have significant information which could further assist in the inquiry."

Officers also want to talk to the driver of a dark Ford Escort van seen on Hawarden Road between 1700 BST and 1900 BST on the night Mrs Hughes was attacked.

Mrs Hughes was attacked in her home near Wrexham

It was seen parked on the opposite side of the road to the Kowloon House and police think it is possible the same vehicle was seen to emerge from nearby Crossways soon after the last known sighting of the hooded man.

On Monday, Mrs Hughes' granddaughter, Claire Hughes, described the murder as a "senseless and wicked act" which had "devastated our small, close family".

Mrs Hughes, who had been a head cook at a local school, died in hospital on Friday. Police - who described her murder as savage - have not established a motive.

Mrs Hughes had been the victim of a distraction burglary at her home in August during which her savings were stolen.

Anyone with information can call 0845 6071002 (English language line), or 0845 6071001 (Welsh language line) or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.