Yorkshire Evening Post – Wednesday 10 February 1943

Attacks On Girls
Goldthorpe Murder Revives Discussion

Police investigation into the death of Gladys Merrick (16), Thurnscoe, whose body was found at Goldthorpe on Monday, continues.

The girl’s clothing was torn and there were marks on her throat. The tragedy has caused a revival In the district of discussion concerning attacks on girls, which are stated to have taken place at Goldthorne some months ago.

A resident says one night two girls were chased in Straight Lane, one being attacked from behind by an assailant who struck her with a stick. The other girl was chased but eluded her pursuer.

Straight Lane is at the opposite end of the village to the plot of ground on which Gladys Merrick’s body was found.