Bridlington guest house murder: Detectives reissue appeal to public for information

Mr Heald, 53, from Rotherham, is wanted by Humberside Police in connection with the murder of Bei Carter, 49, at The Morayland Hotel in Marshall Avenue, on Friday 18 July.

He is also wanted by South Yorkshire Police in connection with a serious offence in Sheffield on Sunday 13 July.

The Free Press understands Ms Carter, ladlady of The Morayland Hotel, died after a single stabwound to the chest.

Around 150 officers from the Humberside, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire police forces are working on the search, and officers strongly believe he is in the Rotherham area.

Potential sightings of John Heald have been reported to police in the last 48 hours in the Wath-upon-Deane, Mexborough, Rawmarsh and Swinton areas.

District Commander for Rotherham, Chief Superintendent Jason Harwin, said: “We would like to thank the public for their continued support and for contacting us with information.

“We need that information to keep coming to us so we can find him as soon as possible.

“It is imperative if you see him, or someone you think is him, that you do not approach him but contact police immediately on 999.

“If you are harbouring this man you are committing an offence. Don’t try to hide this man through misguided loyalties; you need to call police and turn him in.

“I would like to reassure members of the community that we are doing everything in our power to locate this man.

“We have around 150 officers working on the search including officers from Humberside Police and West Yorkshire Police. This includes the mounted and dog sections as well as specialist officers.

“I would like to remind members of the public to be vigilant and consider their personal safety at all times. Keep your doors locked when you are home, be aware of your surroundings if you are out and make sure someone knows where you are and when you are due home.”

Specialist officers are carrying out detailed investigations to find Mr Heald and are responding to all potential sightings.

Neighbourhood policing officers are also working with communities to offer reassurance to members of the public.

Mr Heald is 5ft 11ins tall, of slim build, with blue eyes and short mousey brown hair. His right ear is pierced and he has tattoos on his hands and arms.

On his left hand he has a horse and dots on his knuckles and on his right hand he has dots on his knuckles and on his right arm he has a mermaid and an eagle.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Baldwin, from Humberside Police is leading the murder investigation.

He said: “We are working closely with South Yorkshire Police in the search for John Heald whilst at the same time actively pursuing the murder investigation.

“We have a team of dedicated officers who are working relentlessly to ensure all necessary enquiries are undertaken.

“The public should be reassured that no stone will be left unturned in the search for this man and collection of evidence in connection with the murder of Bei Carter.”

If you see John Heald call 999 immediately.