Divers search Silksworth Lake as part of Andrew Mather murder investigation

Northumbria Police has confirmed its marine unit is carrying out a search of Silksworth Lake, at Silksworth Sport Complex, off North Moor Lane, in relation to the murder of the 48-year-old Sunderland man.

Mr Mather’s body was sadly found at his home in Aintree Road, Farringdon, at around 12pm on Wednesday, June 3.

Wayne Miller, 32, appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Monday, June 8) charged with his murder.

Miller, of Dene Street, will appear at Newcastle Crown Court tomorrow (Wednesday, June 10).

A number of police units are at the side of the lake which has been partly cordoned off by police.

A diver has been pictured carrying out a thorough search of the area, as the police cordon is moved around the lake.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “Our Marine Unit are in the area carrying out searches in relation to the Sunderland murder investigation.”

Detectives were initially treating the Mr Mather’s death as ‘unexplained’ but have since launched a murder investigation

Three others – a 45-year-old man, and two women aged 38 and 18 – were also arrested on suspicion of murder but have since been released under investigation.

A 50-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, has also been released under investigation pending further inquiries.

Mr Mather’s family are being supported by specialist family liaison officers at this time.

Detective Inspector Graeme Barr, of Northumbria Police, said previously: “This remains an incredibly difficult time for Andrew’s family any they are continuing to receive specialist support from our officers.”

On Thursday, June 4, a PCSO was pictured outside an address in Purley Road, in Plains Farm, and witnesses say a forensic team was seen entering the property.

And a police cordon was in place outside a garage in York Street last week as the murder investigation continued.

Anyone with information is still asked to contact 101 quoting reference 389 03/06/20.

Alternatively, use the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the force’s website or contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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