Glyn Razzell's girlfriend, Rachel SmithRAZZELL VERDICT: A WEEK after his estranged wife went missing Glyn Razzell spoke to the Evening Advertiser to protest his innocence at rumours that he was responsible for her disappearance and death.

He also said it would not be long before he was eliminated from police inquiries, but 20 months later he was still the prime suspect and yesterday was found guilty of the murder.

In an open and frank interview, which at the time upset his girlfriend Rachel Smith, he said: "We're all getting increasingly concerned, but we haven't given up hope.

"The police are doing everything they can. I've been interviewed for many hours and I've given as much information as I can. The police have gone back through all the people she knew at university.

"I have no theories, but I don't think Linda is in Swindon. I think she could have gone to Wales where her roots are or possibly France she is a fluent French speaker. I think she doesn't want to be found because if she did she would have come forward.

"I haven't spoken to her since May last year, but I understand from her family she was very stressed and upset about the whole divorce proceedings. We both just wanted to end it.

"When our marriage broke down in 2000 she went to Wales. She went to her family roots in Camarthenshire, but she is not a loner and it is unheard of for her to go away by herself."

The couple had been married 16 years, but since 2000 had undergone a bitter divorce and lived separate lives with their respective partners.

Razzell added: "I've been fully co-operative and I think I've almost been eliminated from their inquiries. My message to Linda would be to please get in touch, just let your family know and let people know you are safe and well.

"You have four lovely children and a new relationship and I hope that, in time, she and I will talk sensibly again.

"Whatever her reason for going I hope she sends a message, whether it is a telephone call or even a text message, to anyone who can pass it on. It's a complete mystery, but Linda should know that the children are fine and they are being looked after."