Cromford, start of the High Peak Trail. Photo: Liz Jones

Police in Derbyshire are appealing for information from a group of walkers seen near the scene of a murder.

The group was at Cromford railway station, in the Peak District, the morning taxi driver Stuart Ludlam was shot dead. Police say the ramblers may hold vital information that will help in their enquiries.

Mr Ludlam, 43, was found dead in the boot of his Ford Focus car about 12.40pm on Thursday, 17 September on the station approach road. Police are still searching for the murder weapon.

A 61-year-old man has been charged with Mr Ludlam’s murder. Colin Cheetham appeared at Derby Magistrates Court last Thursday and has been remanded in custody.

On the High Peak Trail. Photo: Eamon Curry

Chief Superintendent Peter Lewis, in charge of policing in the Derbyshire Dales and High Peak, said: “We are extremely pleased by the number of people who have passed on information by telephone and by stopping officers on patrol.

“The support we have received from members of the public has been excellent and I would appeal to them once more to help us find these items which could assist with the investigation.”

But officers are still trying to trace the group of walkers who were seen at Cromford railway station on the morning of Mr Ludlam’s death. The group consisted of men and women, all wearing outdoor clothing, according to police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Derbyshire police on 0345 123 3333 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Cromford is the starting point of the High Peak Trail, the 27km (17-mile) route for walkers and cyclists along the trackbed of the disused Cromford and High Peak Railway, which now forms part of the Pennine Bridleway.