AS part of the Knife Angel’s visit to Harlow for September, a special appeal is being made for information concerning the murder of local resident Beverley Brinkley, 20 years on from her death in February 2003.

Today (20 September 2023) Crimestoppers is increasing the reward for information leading to the capture of those responsible to £20,000.

In a statement, Beverley’s family said: 

“It’s been 20 years without knowing the truth of what happened to our mum, our sister. Beverley’s parents have now passed away without justice for their daughter. That’s one thing they really wanted, to know who killed her before they passed away.

“I remember her as a really bubbly, outgoing person. She was happy all the time. She adored her children and our whole family.

“She had a personality and a smile that people always remember. She was so loved.

“There’s been 20 years of experiences she’s missed out on, and 20 years we have all had to live without her. We’ll never get to know how great a grandmother she would have been, we’ll never get the years back that someone has taken from us.

“After this many years we know people’s loyalties can change. If you have information you have not shared before, or you know someone that knows something about Beverley’s murder, please come forward and help all of us have the closure and peace we deserve.”

Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood said: 

“We are hopeful that Crimestoppers’ new £20,000 reward for information will encourage more people in Harlow to think hard about that day in February 2003 and the circumstances of Beverley’s murder.

“In 2004 Essex Police received two anonymous letters about this incident. We have received more information following previous appeals on the anniversaries of Beverley’s death.

“We are confident that someone in the community knows something – however small the detail, we want that information. Every piece makes a clearer picture and potentially brings us closer to what happened to Beverley.

“More than 20 years have passed since Beverley was murdered. We know loyalties change and I am convinced somebody in the Harlow area knows who is responsible and can help our inquiry.

“Beverley’s family have never been able to get closure for what happened to her that day. So please come forward and help our investigation to identify the people responsible and provide that closure.

“Please contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously if you have any information that will help me and my team bring people to justice.”

Councillor Stacy Seales, cabinet portfolio holder for community, said:

“This was a horrendous and tragic incident, which sent shockwaves through the local community.

“I am urging anyone who knows anything, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to please come forward and speak to the police.

“Beverley – a mother and a sibling – has a family who have now been waiting decades for justice to be served and deserve to know the truth about what happened to her.”

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