A CHURCH memorial service, beginning almost a year to the hour since a missing woman was last seen, will coincide with fresh efforts by her parents to discover her fate.

Brian and Ann Nicholl last saw their daughter, Jenny, as she left the family home in Richmond, North Yorkshire, on June 30, last year.

The young shopworker, who would now be 20, said she was not planning to return that night.

Four months later, a murder investigation was launched when widespread searches failed to find any trace of her whereabouts.

A Mass dedicated to Jenny will take place at 6.30pm on Friday, June 30, at St Joseph and St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, in Newbiggin, Richmond.

Speaking on a website set up by Jenny's family after her disappearance, her parents said: "The police investigation continues at the same high level and we continue to work with the dedicated team in any way we can.

"As we approach the one-year point since Jenny disappeared, we are planning some events to commemorate the day.

"The main thing for us will be a church service at 6.30pm that evening, exactly one year, almost to the hour, since we last saw Jenny.

"It will be very personal to her and the entire service will be conducted with Jenny in mind.

"We are hoping for a sizeable turnout and anyone of any denomination is welcome to attend."

The service is being organised by the mother of one of Jenny's friends.

Her parents also plan to put up new posters with a fresh picture of Jenny. Advertisements will also be placed in the Press.

Police last night said the investigation into Jenny's disappearance continued.

Searches of the countryside around Richmond are still taking place.

A man arrested on suspicion of murdering Jenny remains on bail pending inquiries Police are declining to release the man's name.

However, it is understood to be David Hodgson, of Olav Road, Richmond, who has admitted having an affair with the young woman prior to her disappearance.