Identity of woman found near Birchington confirmed

Officers investigating the murder of a woman whose body was found between St Nicholas At Wade and Minnis Bay have formally confirmed her identity as Claire Knights.

Shortly after 7pm on Friday 25 August 2023, Kent Police officers attended the scene between St Nicholas At Wade and Minnis Bay where she was found deceased. Formal identification took place on Thursday 31 August.

Claire, 54, had been reported missing from Upstreet on Wednesday 23 August. A post mortem examination has been completed as part of the murder investigation by detectives from the Serious Crime Directorate.

On Thursday 24 August, a man in his 20s from Margate was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has since been detained for assessment by medical professionals. Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the death.

Enquiries by a team of detectives continue, and anyone with information that may assist the investigation should call 101, quoting reference number 23-1922.

CCTV or dashcam footage can be uploaded here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4601020123F08-PO1

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the anonymous online form on their website.