THE search for Zoe Evans (9) continued yesterday and prayers were said at church services throughout the market town of Warminster, Wiltshire. Police fear she has been murdered.
In a poignant tribute at St John's, two Brownies from the 7th Warminster pack, Lauren Norton and Charlotte Thomson, both 10 lit a candle in memory of their friend, who disappeared eight days ago.
The Rector, the Rev Dennis Brett, said the close knit community was in a state of shock and confusion. "There is now a sadness, and perhaps feelings of anger, at the sinister turn of events in the last few days," he said.
"We shall keep that candle burning for her in our church."
Detectives yesterday spent a third day questioning a couple who were arrested in Warminster on Friday. Wiltshire Police have until this morning either to charge the pair or release them, unless senior officers decide to apply to a magistrate for a final 24 hour extension.
Police have refused to name the police station at which the local couple are being detained, or to name the pair, despite widespread reports that they are Zoe's mother and stepfather. Mrs Paula Evans (28), and Zoe's stepfather, Mr Miles Evans (23), a soldier, appeared at an emotional news conference on Wednesday pleading with Zoe to come home.