Police investigating the disappearance of estate agent Suzy Lamplugh have asked prosecutors to decide if anyone should be charged with her murder.

The Metropolitan Police said on Friday it has sent a file in relation to the case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Miss Lamplugh vanished in July 1986 after meeting a client called "Mr Kipper" to show him round a property in Fulham, south west London.

Her body has never been recovered and she was formally declared dead in 1994.

Family's reaction

Suzy Lamplugh's family issued a statement following the police announcement.

The statement said: "We are delighted that the case is moving forward and would like to thank the police for all their hard work.

"The case has remained unsolved for 15 years and we feel confident that we are getting closer to knowing what happened to Suzy."

A police statement said: "Following the re-investigation into the abduction and murder of Suzy Lamplugh we can confirm that a file in relation to the case has been submitted to the CPS."

Diana Lamplugh set up a trust to promote safety

No-one has been arrested or charged but the move could lead to a prosecution. CPS lawyers will now assess whether they think there is enough evidence to bring charges.

A CPS spokeswoman said it was a "significant step" in the inquiry.

Crimewatch appeal

The case has been one of the most high-profile investigations with the police carrying out a number of searches to locate her body.

Miss Lamplugh's mother, Diana, 64, set up the Suzy Lamplugh Trust in her memory to raise employers' awareness about the dangers faced by their staff.

In May 2000, the investigation into Miss Lamplugh's disappearance was reopened and an appeal was made on the BBC's Crimewatch UK programme.

A 46-year-old man was arrested and questioned last year in connection with her disappearance but denied any involvement.