The suspected killer of estate agent Suzy Lamplugh has suffered a stroke in jail, according to a report.
John Cannan, who is currently serving time for rape, murder and kidnapping crimes, is said to be in a 'frail' state in York's high-security jail HMP Full Sutton.
His recent stroke coincided with police officers launching a search for Suzy's remains in Pershore, Worcestershire, last week.
Cannan is the prime suspect in the 1986 murder of the 25-year-old estate agent, although the CPS previously decided there was insufficient evidence to prosecute him.
However, he was convicted of murdering Shirley Banks , attempting to kidnap Jane Holman, attempted robbery and rape in 1989.
A HMP Full Sutton source told The Sun : "Cannan still dreams of being freed.
"But he is now in frail health after suffering a stroke.
"The police are effectively in a race against time if they are to ever prosecute him for Suzy Lamplugh’s murder before it’s too late.’’
Cannan, 64, allegedly told a former girlfriend, Gillan Paige, that he buried Suzy near the old Norton Barracks, near Worcester.
Police are currently digging up a field in Drakes Broughton, Worcestershire, after a new witness contacted officers about Suzy's death.
Fears have been raised about Cannan potentially being up for parole in five years, with police top brass warning he is still dangerous.
Det Supt Jim Dickie, who led the search for Suzy, said: “The Home Secretary... must make the right decision about Cannan’s release.
“He is a threat to any young female. I strongly believe that if he were released tomorrow, he would go on to reoffend.”
