THE father of York chef Claudia Lawrence hosted a tea party to raise money for a charity which helps people whose loved ones have disappeared.

Peter Lawrence took part in the Everything Stops For Tea event last Friday, only days before police arrested a man on suspicion of Claudia’s murder. The man has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

National charity Missing People hopes tea parties like this will help raise £10,000 for its helpline. More than £250 was raised at the York event.

Mr Lawrence thanked Ware and Kay Solicitors for allowing their premises to be used, Morrisons for providing refreshments, and Bradshaws Catering for loaning crockery.

Missing People was given the country’s first 116 freephone line by the Government. The service on 116 000 offers support. Go to missingpeople.org.uk/everythingstops or text TEA to 70660.