 The mother of missing university chef Claudia Lawrence has said she is 'more determined than ever' to get justice for her daughter as she celebrated her 80th birthday. Detectives believe Ms Lawrence – who lived in the Heworth area of York and worked at York University – was murdered, although no body has ever been found. The 35 year-old was last seen on March 18, 2009. Her mother, Joan Lawrence, said the only present she wants is news of her daughter – 'even if it's bad news'. She said: 'I can't believe I'm 80, but it makes me more determined than ever to get justice for Claudia, and closure for myself. 'I'm not one for material things. The only birthday present I want is news – even if it's bad news. I find all these special days – birthdays and anniversaries – emotional and stressful. 'But getting to 80 makes me more determined to keep going, because it feels like I'm running out of time, and I need the answer.' Detectives believe Ms Lawrence – who lived in the Heworth area of York and worked at York University – was murdered (Picture: SWNS) This birthday is particularly painful for Joan, as the last milestone birthday she celebrated with Claudia was her 60th birthday. She said: 'It was a beautiful day. We had Pimm's on the lawn and Claudia was really happy. She bought me a ring with the August birthstone, peridot. 'I keep it safe because I'm scared of losing it. You can't put a price on some things.' Joan went on: 'As hard as it's been, I'm lucky to still have my health and my gorgeous grandchildren, so there's a lot to be thankful for. 'Despite the nightmares, what's happened has also brought a lot of love my way, and that keeps me going. For however much time I've got left, I'll never give up.' Joan said she is 'more determined that ever' to get 'justice' for her daughter (Picture: Peter Barron/SWNS) Joan was diagnosed with alo){kind=link}
NEWS… BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
The mother of missing university chef Claudia Lawrence has said she is ‘more determined than ever’ to get justice for her daughter as she celebrated her 80th birthday.
Detectives believe Ms Lawrence – who lived in the Heworth area of York and worked at York University – was murdered, although no body has ever been found.
The 35 year-old was last seen on March 18, 2009.
Her mother, Joan Lawrence, said the only present she wants is news of her daughter – ‘even if it’s bad news’.