DETECTIVES searching a former home in Swindon of a convicted murderer in connection with the death of a woman have found a "number of items of interest".

More than 30 specialist officers are searching a former address of Christopher Halliwell in Swindon as part of inquiries into the murder of Becky Godden.

The remains of Miss Godden, who disappeared in 2003, were discovered in a field in Eastleach, Gloucestershire, in 2011 by officers investigating the death of Sian O'Callaghan.

Taxi driver Halliwell, 50, later pleaded guilty to murdering Miss O'Callaghan after picking her up in Swindon, Wiltshire, and is serving a life sentence.

The father-of-three also admitted killing Miss Godden, who was last seen in Swindon in December 2002, but his confession was ruled inadmissible by a judge because a senior detective had breached his rights.

Wiltshire Police have continued their investigation into the death of Miss Godden, who had drifted into drugs and prostitution, and aim to bring her killer to justice.

Earlier this year police recovered hundreds of items from a secluded area near Ramsbury, Wiltshire, and also appealed for sightings of a car which Halliwell had owned.

Now detectives are searching an address in Ashbury Avenue, Swindon, where Halliwell once lived.

Detective Chief Inspector Sean Memory, who is leading the investigation, said: "Activity at the house in Ashbury Avenue continues with over 40 staff members working on the investigation.

"Blood dogs from South Wales Police scoured the property and forensically-trained crime scene investigators commenced a finger-tip search.

"We can confirm that a number of items of interest were found at the house and have been sent for analysis by experts."

Police are also distributing renewed appeal posters in the local area and Mr Memory is urging anyone who saw Miss Godden over Christmas 2002 and into the new year to get in touch.

"Detectives have been speaking to residents in the area and gathering information regarding Becky's disappearance, this work will also continue along with the poster campaign," Mr Memory said.

"People have come forward with helpful information who have not contacted us previously as they didn't think it would be relevant.

"I cannot stress strongly enough how important it is to let us know any information you have, as the smallest detail may be the key to justice for Becky and her family.

"We know that Becky was last seen on December 27 2002 and we need people to come forward with any information about where she was in early 2003. Did you see Becky over the new year period?

"I would like to reiterate our thanks to the occupants of the house, who have no involvement in this investigation, and the local community for their assistance and co-operation.

"I anticipate that the road closure at Ashbury Avenue will remain in place until the end of the week."

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