National TV appeal launched over murder of taxi driver George Murdoch in Aberdeen using a cheese wire

A renewed appeal for information has been launched over the brutal murder of a taxi driver using a cheese wire almost 40 years ago.

George ‘Dod’ Murdoch, 58, was murdered in Aberdeen on Thursday, September 29, 1983.

He had told his taxi control room that he was heading to Culter to pick up his fare at 8:35pm that evening.

However, the journey would be his last as Mr Murdoch never made it to his destination.

The taxi driver was violently attacked after turning onto Pitfodels Station Road, on the outskirts of the city near to Deeside Railway line.

Mr Murdoch died following the attack, with his money and wallet being stolen.

Nobody has ever been arrested in connection with the murder, despite a major investigation launched in 1983 which saw 10,000 homes visited and 8000 statements made to police.

Two cyclists saw Mr Murdoch being attacked and raised the alarm, but it was too late by the time officers arrived.

The murderer has been described as a man is his late 20s to early 30s, who had dark hair which sat over his ears.

A reward of £20,000 has been offered to anyone who provides information leading to the confirmed identity of the killer.

The reward was doubled from £10,000 in September last year in a bid to find who was responsible.

The case featured on BBC’s Crimewatch programme on Monday, with Mr Murdoch’s family taking part in the appeal.

Detective Inspector James Callander, from Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Regardless of how much time has passed, we continue receive a positive response from members of the public from all around the world when we appeal for information about this senseless murder.

“Over the years we have received sporadic information about what may have happened to George, and this is always investigated.

“It is apparent that many people will still have information that may help us bring closure to his family and it is hoped that today’s national television appeal may be seen by those people.

“Stories are passed on, or people remember something that may have seemed insignificant to them at the time, but is actually vital for us.

“We are urging anyone who has not come forward previously who believes they can assist the investigation to contact 101 or e-mail a dedicated inbox at SCDHOLMESAberdeen@scotland.pnn.poli.”