POLICE officers involved in convicting a murderer - despite not having a body - have been commended for their work.

Five officers from Blackburn police have received 'excellence awards' for their part in catching the killer of Accrington businessman David Guilfoyle.

Shane Fitzpatrick, 39, of Lyndale Road, Hapton, was jailed for life in 2006 after being found guilty of murdering his ex-wife's lover and disposing of the body in a jealous rage.

The 37-year-old's corpse was never found but officers secured a conviction after finding splatters of Mr Guilfoyle's blood and DNA evidence from Fitzpatrick at the scene.

DI Gary Brooks, DI Pete Broome, DS Mark Winstanley, DC Adrian McHugh and PC Claire Whitaker all received Chief Constable's Commendations at Lancashire Constabulary's 'Celebrating Excellence' Awards evening last night.

Lancashire Constabulary Chief Constable Steve Finnigan said: "We have been celebrating the outstanding performance, dedication, bravery and enthusiasm of over 180 officers and members of staff from across the county who have all been recognised over the last year or so for their outstanding contributions for the constabulary and ultimately for the people of Lancashire."