Search of remote area for remains of murdered Glasgow woman Lynda Spence in Dunoon called off by police

Police have called off the search for the remains of a Glasgow woman who was tortured and murdered in 2011 after being kidnapped.

Earlier this year authorities confirmed that they were assessing a remote area of ground near Dunoon for the remains of financial advisor Lynda Spence.

Ms Spence disappeared in 2011 and two men were later convicted of her murder in 2013.

Colin Coates was found to have abducted, tortured and killed financial adviser Lynda Spence in April 2011 and was jailed for a minimum of 33 years.

Along with accomplice Philip Wade, he forced Ms Spence into a car on Broomhill Path, Glasgow, on April 14, 2011, and drove her to a flat in West Kilbride, Ayrshire, where she was murdered.

However, Ms Spence’s remains were never found.

In March, a search began in a woodland area following a tip off, but forensics and specialist officers have now been told to stand down as no remains or any new evidence has been found.

Ms Spence’s family have been notified and anyone with information has been urged to come forward.

Detective Superintendent Suzanne Chow said: “Extensive enquiries have been carried out at this site since March 2022, involving Police Scotland officers, specialist search teams and forensic scientists from across the United Kingdom.

“The final searches have now been completed and, unfortunately, we have not recovered Lynda’s remains or any new evidence.

“This was a lengthy and complex operation due to the remote location and I would like to thank everyone involved for their efforts.

“Lynda’s family have been informed of this development and ask that their privacy is respected during this difficult time.

“The investigation to find Lynda’s remains continues and I would ask anyone with information to please come forward and speak to officers.”