The Welwyn Hatfield Times has been given exclusive access to the search teams inside the grounds at Hatfield House.

Chief reporter Kelly-Ann Kiernan looked on as more than 30 officers scoured the grounds in the hunt for Martin Collett.

Police are searching the area after a tip-off from a member of the public, who believed they spotted the 35-year-old sat on a small wooden fence, which is protecting a tree at the stately home.

Collett is accused of murdering ex-partner Angela Hoyt, in the home they shared in Glebeland, Hatfield.

Our reporter said: “The helicopter is hovering overhead and there are officers both in cars and on foot searching every part of the grounds.

“A police dog, named Colly, has also joined the manhunt.

“This is a massive estate with lots of places to hide, the search could go on for a long while yet.”