Four arrested over disappearance of millionaire farmer

AN investigation into the disappearance of a millionaire farmer days after his car was set alight has taken a twist after four people were arrested on suspicion of murder.

Searches for William Taylor have taken place since early in June when he was reported missing.

His Land Rover had been burnt out at his home in Gosmore, Herts, a few days earlier.

Officers carried out line searches of oat fields at the farm but there has been no sign of a body.

At the time, the alleged arson attack had not been connected to his disappearance, Hertfordshire Constabulary said. However, last night a spokesman for the force said the three men – aged 18, 22 and 53 – and a 52-year-old woman were being held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and on suspicion of arson and conspiracy to commit arson.

Det Chief Insp Carl Foster from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit said: “Extensive inquiries and searches have been carried out since William was reported missing, including a thorough search of the farmland surrounding his home.

“Further searches are taking place at three other addresses in North Herts. William’s body has not been found and our inquiries are continuing.”