Linzi Ashton Murder Suspect Caught On CCTV

CCTV images of the man wanted over the murder of mother-of-two Linzi Ashton have been released by detectives.

Michael Cope has been named by police as the main suspect in the "brutal" killing of the 25-year-old at her home in Winton, Salford.

Cope, 28, is seen in the footage buying snacks and drinks from the Best One shop in Liverpool Road, Eccles, on Friday at about 10.45pm.

Ms Ashton, who had two young daughters, was found dead by a member of her family the next day.

A post-mortem examination found she had died as a result of pressure to the neck and multiple injuries.

A £5,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the capture of Cope, who is described as "dangerous" by Greater Manchester Police.

A 25-year-old man was arrested on Monday night on suspicion of helping Cope. He is still thought to be in the Salford area.

Police want to hear from anyone who saw Ms Ashton or Cope, who had been involved in a brief "acrimonious" relationship.

It is believed the pair were seen together on Friday evening.

Chief Superintendent Kevin Mulligan said: "Our efforts to trace Michael Cope are ongoing and we have released this footage in the hope that people may recognise the man filmed, whom we believe to be Michael.

"We believe that this sighting is from before Linzi's murder, and we also believe that at some point on Friday night he was with Linzi.

"At this moment Cope knew that he was wanted by police, which is why we think he is wearing a hooded top. It is also possible that Cope will have changed his clothes since this sighting.

"I also want to reiterate that Cope is a dangerous man and should not be approached. Anyone who sees him should call 999 immediately."

Anyone with information that could aid the investigation should call police on 0161 856 5092 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.