Arrest a relief, says murdered girl's father

The father of British backpacker Caroline Stuttle has spoken of his relief after a man appeared in a court in Australia charged with his daughter's murder.

Alan Stuttle was speaking as Ian Douglas Previte appeared at Bundaberg Magistrates Court.

The charges against Previte, 30, an inmate at Queensland prison, followed a 10 month police investigation that also involved the state's prison service.

Mr Stuttle said: "It's a great start to the conclusion of the crime.

"It's been going on for some time now and hopefully we can draw a line under what has happened and we can get on with our lives now.

"I would just like to say a heartfelt thank you to the police in Australia for all the hard work they have done."

Mr Stuttle said he had been given few details about the man but he hoped to visit Australia "in due course".

He added: "He is probably relieved that it is over, as we are."

Mr Stuttle said he did not expect the trial to take place for more than a year.

The body of Caroline, from York, was found on April 10, 2002 in Bundaberg, 220 miles north of the state capital Brisbane. Police believe she was robbed and either fell or was pushed from the 30ft bridge. She died of head and spinal injuries.

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