DETECTIVES are still determined to find justice for a teenage murder victim one year after launching a fresh investigation into a North-East force's longest unsolved murder.

Durham Constabulary reopened the case of May Rebecca Thompson's murder after more than half a century when new evidence emerged.

Detective Inspector Neil Redhead, who is leading the investigation, hopes that advances in forensic science could be used to find evidence in samples retained at the time.

Twelve months on, Det Insp Redhead still hopes to find out who brutally stabbed the quiet 18-year-old, at her home in William Street, Spennymoor, in February 1952.

Since reopening the inquiry, officers have discovered unknown relatives in the region and witnesses have contacted the murder team with new information.

They have spoken to one man, who as The Northern Echo exclusively revealed, fears his late father may have been responsible for the killing.

A retired police officer who worked on the original investigation- when more than 3,000 statements were taken- came forward to add his knowledge.

Experts in interviewing sensitive witnesses have also been called in to assist the murder team.

Det Insp Redhead said: "This investigation is ongoing and we continue pursuing every avenue possible.

"We still want to hear from anyone who might be able to add information to help us in our inquiry."

Anyone with information is urged to call Durham police on 0845 6060365