THE York family of a schoolgirl killed in one of Britain's most chilling murders have accused a TV interviewer of losing crucial evidence that they believe could secure a conviction in the case.

Martin Bashir was today criticised by Gillian Chambers, aunt of tragic Nicola Fellows, amid allegations that the loss could lead to suspect and convicted sex fiend Russell Bishop walking free.

In what became known as the Babes In The Wood case, Nicola, nine, and her best friend, Karen Hadaway, ten, were abducted from outside Nicola's Brighton home in 1986.

They were found sexually assaulted and strangled in a nearby park.

The family say that in 1991 Mr Bashir took murder scene underwear from Karen's family, promising independent DNA tests as part of a BBC probe.

But the Public Eye documentary never saw the light of day - and relatives claim Mr Bashir has not returned the clothes despite repeated requests.

Mr Bashir, who shot to fame interviewing Princess Diana and now works for ITV's Tonight With Trevor McDonald, denied not co-operating with relatives.

But Mrs Chambers believes Karen's bloodstained clothing is vital, as DNA taken from them could lead detectives to main suspect Bishop, 36, from Brighton.

Bishop - cleared of the double murder but later caged for life for kidnapping and sexually attacking a girl aged seven - could be freed in May.

Mrs Chambers, 51, of Acomb, said: "It's vital we get the clothes back, but he's not answering any questions."

Nicola's uncle, retired policeman Ian Heffron, said he did not get a satisfactory response from Mr Bashir when he requested the clothes back.

"In our opinion, Bashir and the BBC have been passing the buck. We think this clothing could almost certainly convict Bishop."

Police are examining evidence found on Nicola's body. But relatives believe the lost clothing will strengthen any case against Bishop, who could face court again when the law changes on retrials for the same offence .

A BBC spokeswoman said: "We have only just learned that these items may have been in the possession of Public Eye in 1991.

"We have made extensive inquiries to try to track down the items, so far without success. We will continue with our inquiries."

Martin Bashir's manager, John Miles, said his client had been told by the family he signed a receipt when the clothes were handed over. He assumed they had been kept safe.

Mr Miles added: "He genuinely couldn't remember anything about the case. He said he would do anything he could to find out where the clothes are and co-operate with the BBC."

Updated: 10:46 Wednesday, March 24, 2004