Police have released a new plea for information as they continue to search in Warwickshire for the missing body of a man killed 12 years ago.

Jesse Richards, who was 40 at the time, was killed in Cleeve Prior, Evesham on 31 July 2009 during a "merciless and sustained attack" over a drugs debt.

West Mercia Police believe that his body was then driven to Warwickshire and hidden, although no specific area in the county has been identified.

In 2012, five men were jailed in connection with his death and were collectively sentenced to more than 50 years in prison despite his body never being found.

Over the years, Jesse's mother, Lucy Richards, has appealed for anyone with information to come forward and she has made a personal plea once again, and a £10,000 reward is still available for information leading to the successful discovery of his body.

She said: "It is difficult enough coming to terms with Jesse's murder and 12 years on there isn't a day I don't think about him. I'm not getting any younger and life is made so much harder not being able to lay him to rest.

"It is made much worse as I'm sure any mother or close family would understand by not being able to visit him on dates such as birthdays and significant family events and of course the anniversary of his death.

"Please, if anyone knows anything no matter how small it may seem, think about his family and get in touch with the police."

Searches were made as recently as June 2020 following a tip off, but that nothing of significance was found.

Detective Inspector Mark Peters said: "With the discovery of any unexplained bodies, the family's hopes are raised only to be dashed again. We remain determined to find Jesse and will consider and act upon information received."