THIRTEEN years on - police are appealing for help to find Jesse Richards' body and bring closure to his family.

Jesse, who was 40 at the time of his death, was killed in Cleeve Prior, Evesham, on July 31, 2009 in a merciless and sustained attack over a drug debt.

In 2012, five men were jailed in connection with his death and were collectively sentenced to more than 50 years in prison despite his body never being found.

Detectives believe the body was originally taken to Warwickshire where it was hidden.

Detective Sergeant Gareth Evans said: ”A number of people responsible for Jesse’s death were convicted of manslaughter however 13 years on, his body has not yet been found.

“Jesse’s mother has lived all this time without being able to lay her son to rest, and she deserves to be given the opportunity to do so.

“We are committed to finding Jesse, and strongly believe that someone out there has information that will help us.

“There is still time to do the right thing and give Jesse’s mother the closure she desperately deserves. The £10,000 reward still remains on offer for information leading to the successful recovery of Jesse’s body.”

Jesse’s mother, Lucy Richards, has over the years appealed for anyone with information to come forward, and this year is no different.

She said: ”Some time has now passed since the death of my Jesse, but I still hope that we may one day lay him to rest so that he can finally be at peace. Our family will never forget Jesse, and his loss remains as raw today as it was 13 years ago.

“The main offender prosecuted has recently been released and this has brought the overwhelming feeling of unfairness flooding back, my Jesse will never come back.

“Please, if anyone knows anything, no matter how small it may seem, get in touch with the police and help us to find Jesse.”

Anyone with information that could help the searches is urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101 and ask to speak to DS Gareth Evans.

Alternatively, call him directly on 07977 068 033.

DS Evans is keen to stress that any contact will remain confidential but there is obviously a benefit in him being able to discuss the information.

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit the website.