Prostitute's body found in Suffolk

The body of a woman discovered in a brook in Suffolk has been identified as missing prostitute Gemma Adams.

Ms Adams, 25, from Ipswich, was reported missing in the early hours of November 15 when she failed to return home.

Her body was discovered in a brook at Thorpes Hill in Hintlesham late on Saturday morning.

A Home Office pathologist carried out a post-mortem at Ipswich Hospital on Sunday, but police said that further tests will need to be carried out in order to help ascertain the cause of death.

The death is being treated as suspicious and police have cordoned off an area along the A1071 in Hintlesham while they carry out their inquiries.

It is understood that the last confirmed sighting of Gemma was close to the BMW garage on West End Road around 1:15 am on the morning of November 15. When Gemma was last seen, she was wearing a black waterproof waist length jacket with a hood and a zip up the front, light blue jeans with studs on the pockets, a red top and white and chrome Nike trainers. She was also carrying a black handbag.

Detective Chief Inspector David Skevington, who is leading the investigation into Gemma's murder said: "The main focus of our investigation over the next few days will be in the area Gemma's body was discovered. This is a remote area, often used by anglers, dog walkers and ramblers; it is not an area that is easily accessible by car.

"When Gemma was found, her body was naked and we therefore need to try to find her clothing as a matter of urgency."

Another prostitute from Ipswich is also currently missing.

Tania Nicol, from Woolverstone Close, has not been seen since October 30, when she disappeared while working the same patch near Ipswich football club's Portman Road ground. She is described as having an olive complexion and is 5ft 2ins tall and of slim build. She has shoulder length brown hair, brown eyes and a spotty complexion. The last time she was seen she was wearing a light coloured top, mid-blue cut-off jeans and pink high-heeled shoes.

Police are investigating the possibility that the same man targeted both women.

On Monday, the 'Daily Mirror' reported that a series of prostitutes had gone missing or had been murdered in recent years in both the Suffolk and Norfolk areas. All the cases are so far unsolved.

'The Sun' also reported that Mandy Duncan, another prostitute from the same town, had vanished in 1992.

Anyone with any information regarding the murder of Gemma Adams is asked to contact police on: 01473 613538 or Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111.

(KMcA)