Family appeal over Shirley's murder

The family of 24-year-old Shirley Finlay, who was murdered in County Antrim two weeks ago, has today appealed for help from the public in finding the person responsible for her death.

Shirley's body was discovered wrapped in a duvet in a car park in the Mount Street area of Ballymena on September 19.

A post-mortem examination later revealed that she had been strangled, and police believe that there may have been a sexual motive behind her murder.

Shirley's foster mother, Mary Corry today said that her family had been upset by reports that the victim had been a drifter with drink and drug problems.

Shirley was last seen in the Harryville area of Ballymena on the afternoon of Monday September 18 in the company of a man aged in his late 20s or early 30s, who is described as being tall in height, with dark hair.

The victim is described as being around 5ft tall, of slim to average build, with dyed blonde hair – however in the photographs published, her hair is dark.

She was wearing a grey fleece, black trouser bottoms and, possibly, trainers.

Police are currently trying to find her trousers and footwear, which had been removed by the time her body was discovered.

Detectives in Ballymena have asked for anyone with any information in relation to the murder, no matter how small, to contact them on 0845 600 8000, or anonymously on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.

(EF)