Women warned as hunt continues for Bristol killer

LONDON: Police investigating the murder of Bristol landscape architect Joanna Yeates have advised women in the city to be cautious as the killer remains at large.

The police warning came after Yeates' landlord Chris Jefferies was released on bail after being questioned on suspicion of murdering the 25-year-old.

"Lone women should avoid walking home alone after dark and householders should keep their premises secure and take care answering the door to strangers," chief superintendent Jon Stratford said.

Police assured the public that patrols had been stepped up, and more than 70 officers and staff continue to investigate the crime.

Stratford thanked the public for helping with the inquiry, saying police had received more than 1,000 calls.

Yeates disappeared on December 17 after a night out with colleagues in Bristol.

Her snow-covered body was discovered in a country lane on Christmas Day. She had been strangled.

CCTV footage from December 17 shows her visiting a Waitrose supermarket, an off-licence, and a Tesco Express near her flat.

Police are particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have used Longwood Lane in Failand, Bristol, between December 17 and Christmas Day.