THE detective leading the investigation into the murder of a Bridlington woman is appealing for the author of an anonymous letter to come forward.

The letter, which gives information about Linda Wardill, whose body was found in a flat in Albion Terrace, Bridlington, on December 11, was addressed to Det Chief Insp Bill Sparnon and hand delivered through the door of Bridlington Police Station the day after she was found.

Police said the letter gives sufficient information about the 45-year-old woman to suggest the author "knew a great deal about Linda and her lifestyle".

Investigators have been trying to check the details in the letter, which has provided them with a number of lines of inquiry, but would now like the author to get in touch so they can talk about the murder investigation in more detail.

Det Supt Colin Andrews, who is in charge of the investigation, said: "I can reassure the writer that they will be dealt with sensitively and with the strictest confidence, but it is vital that he or she comes forward."

Detectives also want the public's help to piece together some of the details of Ms Wardill's recent domestic life.

It had been claimed that in the months before her death she had been seen with a number of bruises. Police want to speak to anyone who may know where these bruises came from or anyone in whom she may have confided.

The person who wrote the letter and anyone else with information is asked to phone the incident room on 01377 241882. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Peter Allan Foster, 46, of Bridlington, has been charged with two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Linda Wardill. He is currently on court bail.

Updated: 11:18 Thursday, January 09, 2003