MURDERER Ian Simms could be moved to an open prison following a recommendation from the Parole Board.

Simms, who was convicted of murdering Helen McCourt in 1988 in the town's most notorious murder case.

The former landlord of the George and Dragon has never admitted his guilt in almost three decades.

Because of his refusal to reveal the location of Helen's body her mother Marie has been unable to give her a proper funeral.

Since his conviction she has campaigned to keep him in jail until he says what happened to Helen and has recently called for the introduction of Helen's Law which would prevent murderers gaining their freedom unless they revealed the location of their victims.

Simms was up before the Parole Board this week in his latest bid for freedom.

A spokesman from the Parole Board confirmed: "We can confirm that a three member panel of the Parole Board has not directed the release of Ian Simms, however they have recommended that he be transferred to open conditions. This is a recommendation only and the Ministry of Justice will now consider the advice and make the final decision."

They said Simms will be eligible for a further review within two years.  The date of the next review will be set by the Ministry of Justice.