THREE men have been arrested accused of helping a murderer bury his victim in the back garden of his home.

Richard Clare was found guilty of slitting the throat of love rival Peter McConnell and is currently serving a minimum of 27 years behind bars.

In the early hours of Thursday, police carried out a dawn raid in Chelwood Avenue, Hatfield, and arrested a 48-year-old man and a 27-year-old man.

Later that afternoon a third man, aged 38 from Hoddesdon, handed himself in to Hatfield Police Station.

All three men were arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and released on bail until March 22.

Clare, 38, of Fern Dells, Hatfield, had told the court during his defence evidence he had help digging the grave and cleaning the house – which included ripping up floorboards and replastering the walls.

Herts police are still keen for witnesses to come forward and believe the Hatfield community has more to share.

A spokeswoman said: “We know people in Hatfield are talking about the case and we’d like to speak to anyone who can help us in regards to the men recently arrested.”

Call the incident room on 01707 355959 or for a cash reward call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.