Police statement
Detective Superintendent Andy Cribbin of Lancashire Police, said: “This is a despicable crime in which a complete stranger, who for reasons known only to himself, attacked and killed Lindsay. He then set about covering his tracks and attempting to conceal Lindsay’s body.
“Our subsequent CCTV enquiries show that the defendant made several trips between an area close to the Coppice and the cemetery in the subsequent days and it is our belief that he even did a dry run to see if he could successfully move Lindsay’s body without being caught.
“Throughout the investigation and trial, the defendant weaved a tale of lies and tried to pass the blame onto an ‘unknown man’, who in reality did not exist. He has shown no remorse whatsoever for his offending and the devastation caused to the lives of Lindsay’s family and friends.
“I have nothing but admiration for Lindsay’s children Sarah and Steven, her family, colleagues and many friends. They have suffered a huge loss and have conducted themselves with dignity from the outset and throughout the trial. I hope this outcome helps them in some way with their grieving.
“I would like to thank the jury for their attention and careful consideration of the facts in delivering this verdict in what was a distressing case for them to hear.
“When Lindsay went missing the outpouring of support from the community of Accrington and elsewhere was gratefully received. For days on end people assisted with searching for Lindsay, assisting the police officers, firefighters and Mounted Rescue colleagues, who were all devastated when our worst fears were realised. Their dedication shows how loved and respected Lindsay was by so many people and it makes it so much harder to understand how her life came to end so tragically. I would like to thank everyone on behalf of Lindsay’s family and the Police for all of their help and well wishes.
“Finally, I would like to thank all of the police staff and officers, the Crown Prosecution Service and prosecution counsel for their tireless work in piecing together what happened to Lindsay and bringing the defendant to justice.”