A NEW lead in the search for missing York chef Claudia Lawrence that emerged after an appeal on Crimewatch has been discarded.

The BBC appeal, which featured fresh CCTV footage of Claudia shortly before she vanished, prompted about 30 calls from the public, including a “potentially significant lead”.

The information, which officers said related to “an outdoor location in North Yorkshire”, has now been fully investigated and has been discounted.

Police said the call was made in good faith and said anyone with any information should still contact police. Detective Superintendent Ray Galloway, who is leading the investigation, said: “Throughout the investigation, information and support from the public has been immense and has regularly contributed to the progress of the investigation.

“We want to reassure people that they should not hesitate to inform us of any suspicious activity. The public should not be put off from making a call if they have any information they believe could help.”