Student appeal by Claudia father

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The father of Claudia Lawrence has appealed for help from students returning to York's two universities after their Easter break.

Detectives are now treating the disappearance of Miss Lawrence, 35, who was last seen on 18 March, as murder.

Her father Peter has left messages on the intranets of both the University of York, where Ms Lawrence worked as a chef, and York St John University.

He asked staff and students to search their memories for anything suspicious.

Ms Lawrence was last seen near her home after she finished work at the University of York's Goodricke College.

£10,000 reward

Her father has made regular appeals in the media for his daughter's safe return.

In his messages to the universities he said: "The reasons for this message are two-fold. Firstly, Claudia's disappearance coincided with the end of last term.

Miss Lawrence last spoke to her father and mother on the evening of 18 March

"Indeed, on March 20 many students were already going home for the Easter vacation.

"Most of you are only now returning and the family will be most grateful if you will search your memories from the end of term and consider whether you saw Claudia after she left work after 2pm on March 18 or whether you saw anything at all which you now consider was unusual or suspicious."

Mr Lawrence also apologised for "necessary" police searches which took place in student accommodation over the Easter break.

He said: "I am sure you will realise that it had to be ascertained that Claudia was not there.

"Our concern is for Claudia's well-being and safe return. Thank you for your forbearance and co-operation."

Mr Lawrence urged students with any information to contact North Yorkshire Police.

Crimestoppers has put up a £10,000 reward in connection with the investigation.