POLICE hunting the killer of postmistress Diana Garbutt carried out stop checks of vehicles exactly a week after the murder.

The operation took place as the vicar of Melsonby, near Richmond, said the village was finding it difficult to come to terms with the death of the 40-year-old.

Officers questioned motorists as they drove in and out of the village yesterday morning.

A fresh appeal for information was also made, as detectives continued to search bins and gardens.

The body of Mrs Garbutt, who grew up in Eggborough and attended Brayton High School and Selby College, was found upstairs above the post office and shop she ran with husband Robin, 44, on March 23.

Mr Garbutt told police he discovered his wife’s body after an armed raider confronted him in the store and made off with a substantial amount of cash.

Inspector Ian Thompson, of Richmond police, said: “We would still like to hear from anyone who was in the village between 8am and 9am on Tuesday last week, who has not already come forward, particularly in the Moor Road and St James Close area.

“We are determined to bring Diana’s killer to justice, but we need the assistance of members of the public to help us to do this.”

Anyone with information should phone 01904 669576.

A book of condolences has been opened at the church in Melsonby. Rev Stan Haworth said the village was coping with difficulty.

He said: “It will take some time to come to terms with what happened last Tuesday.”