Murder detectives make fresh appeal about deaths of Eve Stratford and Lynne Weedon

Eve Stratford, 22, was found stabbed to death in her flat in Lyndhurst Drive, Leyton, on March 18 1975 and her murder has remained unsolved despite extensive enquiries.

In 2006, police linked Miss Stratford’s murder with the rape and subsequent death of Lynne Weedon, 16, in Hounslow in September 1975, after analysis found the same DNA on both victims.  

40 years later, police have appealed for information in the hope someone may come forward about the murders.

Miss Stratford, who worked at the Playboy Club in central London, was found with neck injuries in her home.

She was last seen by witnesses walking near her home in the snow and she appeared to be alone.

Eve Stratford, 22, worked at the Playboy Club

At 4.30pm an occupant in another flat at the converted house heard the voices of a man and a woman in conversation, which did not sound heated or confrontational.

A short while later, the witness recalled hearing a loud thud noise coming from Eve's first-floor flat.

Her body was discovered by her boyfriend at 5.25pm in the bedroom.

Miss Stratford had a nylon stocking tied round one ankle and a scarf round her hands.

Her neck had been cut between eight and 12 times.

There was no sign of forced entry to the flat and no weapon was ever recovered.

Detective Chief Inspector Noel McHugh said: “I firmly believe there is someone out there who has information about who carried out these murders.

"It's inconceivable the killer of Eve and Lynne has kept the perfect secret for 40 years.

“It is a heavy burden to carry and he must have let details slip over the years - maybe to a partner, a friend, even a cellmate - and I would appeal to anyone with information to contact us.

"The families of Eve and Lynne had spent decades not knowing who brutally killed their loved ones and they surely deserve some answers."

Lynne Weedon died in hospital a week after being found raped near an electricity sub-station in Hounslow.

Her skull had been smashed with a blunt instrument.

It is not thought the victims knew each other, but police say it is possible the killer knew Miss Stratford.

Schoolgirl Lynne Weedon was found  raped with serious injuries

Lynne’s mother Margaret Weedon said: “We are left 40 years on always wondering what it would have been like.

"A true life sentence.

"We are well aware that whoever murdered Lynne also murdered Eve Stratford.

“That young lady also had her life snubbed out.

“Her family have died now.

“Another true life sentence.      

"The hurt eases but the pain still sits deep somewhere inside.

“There are so many questions.

“So many thoughts.

“So much heartache.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8785 8099 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.