Man wanted over wife's murder spotted staying near town

A man wanted in connection with the murder of his wife has been spotted travelling across the North East of Scotland.

Mark Barrot is a suspect in the killing of Eileen Barrot who was found dead at the couple’s home in Naburn Fold, Whinmoor, Leeds, on Sunday.

West Yorkshire Police widened the hunt after he caught a train from Leeds to Edinburgh Waverley.

The 54-year-old was caught on CCTV on Aberdeen’s Huntly Street in the city centre on Sunday night.

Now, Mr Barrot is believed to have been staying near to Elgin, Moray. Police swooped on premises but the suspect had already gone.

However, investigators were able to confirm he had been at the location. He is believed to have caught a train to Elgin from Aberdeen.

Senior investigator detective chief inspector Vanessa Rolfe appealed directly to Mr Barrot to hand himself in to avoid prolonging the hunt.

Mark Barrott on CCTV at Leeds train station on Sunday West Yorkshire Police

“We are still working to locate and arrest Mark Barrott as a suspect for his wife Eileen’s murder, and we are keen to hear from anyone who has seen him following this latest confirmed sighting in the Elgin area yesterday (Tuesday),” she said.

“We have already sent detectives to Scotland to work alongside our colleagues from Police Scotland who are supporting and assisting the search for Mr Barrott.

“Our advice remains that anyone who sees him should not approach him but should contact police immediately on 999.

“Clearly, Eileen’s family are continuing to go through an incredibly difficult time following her death and I would appeal directly to Mark Barrott to hand himself in to police and avoid prolonging things any further.”

Mr Barrot’s silver Toyota Avensis was recovered from the Lincoln Green area of Leeds shortly before 7pm on Tuesday.

Police believe it had been abandoned there before he travelled to Edinburgh by train.

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via 101 quoting Operation Pumacastle, reference 13210413554, or online here.