Catherine Gowing: Remains found at Chester identified as missing vet

Catherine Gowing disappeared on October 12 after leaving a supermarket near her home

Human remains found on the banks of the River Dee in Chester have been identified as those of missing vet Catherine Gowing, say police.

Ms Gowing, 37, from New Brighton, Flintshire, disappeared on 12 October.

The remains found at Higher Ferry on Friday are the second set positively identified as the missing vet, and officers say the search continues.

Clive Sharp, 46, from Bethesda, Gwynedd, has been charged with her murder.

The family of Ms Gowing, originally from Kinnity, near Birr, in County Offaly, has been informed.

Det Ch Insp Mark Pierce, senior investigating officer from North Wales Police, said: "The results have been passed to Catherine's family. As you can imagine this is a very difficult time for them.

"They continue to be supported by specialist officers and are being kept fully updated with the progress of the investigation.

Disused quarry

Ms Gowing worked at a vet's practice in Mold.

She has not been seen since approximately 20:40 BST on Friday, 12 October when she was seen on CCTV leaving an Asda supermarket in Queensferry.

Her burned-out car was found near a disused quarry near her home a week later.

Remains discovered in a shallow pool at Sealand a week ago have also been identified as Ms Gowing.

Mr Pierce repeated his appeal for any information about any sightings of Ms Gowing's car with the Irish registration 00D 99970 and Clive Sharp's black Volvo S40 registration AG58 JHE since 12 October - particularly in the Sealand and River Dee areas.

He added: "The search for further remains and any evidence to assist this investigation continues and I would again ask the local community if you have seen any suspicious activity or person in Manor Road, Sealand or on the banks of the River Dee, or have any information which may assist our investigation to contact police on 101."

An inquest has been opened and adjourned into Ms Gowing's death. The coroner said a cause of death had been deferred.