A PIECE of a parachute rig has been recovered by a farmer in Hibaldstow, North Lincolnshire, near to where Herefordshire skydiver Stephen Hilder died.

The cutaway pad, a canvas material which, when pulled, leads to the release of the main chute, was found in a field near to where his body landed.

A farmer found the pad on Wednesday as he was about to begin ploughing the field.

At this stage it is not clear how significant the discovery is although it will be sent away for forensic examination.

"The pad may not turn out to be significant in terms of its forensic value, however it helps us to continue to put the jigsaw together," said Det Supt Colin Andrews, who is heading the investigation.

"This finding demonstrates this enquiry is still very much alive and we are still very keen to speak to people with information about Stephen and the circumstance surrounding his death.

"New information continues to come into the incident room and we are constantly following up lines of enquiry.

"I would like to reiterate my plea to people who have information that might be of interest to us to get in contact with us and share what they know."

Stephen, from Stretton Sugwas, died during the National Championships of the British Collegiate Parachute Association at Hibaldstow airfield on July 4.

Three people have so far been arrested for the murder, but all have been subsequently released on bail.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on Monday and released Wednesday. Two 19-year-old men were arrested on Wednesday, October 22.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the major incident room at Scunthorpe Police Station on 01724 282844 or, alternatively, e-mail hilder.incident@ humberside.pnn.police.uk