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New fingerprint technology has enabled police to identify a woman killed on the M25 in Hertfordshire 20 years ago.

Investigations have revealed Lesley Ann Pickavance died after being hit by several vehicles as she tried to cross the M25 in July 1990.

She had been in contact with her family from Bedford but was not living with them and her address at the time remains unknown.

Fingerprints from the body scanned by modern systems revealed a match.

There had been no identification on the body and a subsequent media appeal did not bring anyone forward.

Meticulous checks

A woman had been seen walking on the hard shoulder of the M25 near junction 23 at Potters Bar in Hertfordshire.

"It appears she attempted to cross the carriageway to get to the central reservation and was hit by several vehicles, resulting in her death," police said.

"Lesley Ann had not been formally reported to police as missing.

"During a review of cold cases fingerprints were run through modern equipment and revealed a match.

"Further meticulous checks had to be carried out by the team before the family could be informed that Lesley Ann had finally been identified.

"The family, though shocked to learn of Lesley Ann's death, were also glad to have some closure over her disappearance.

"They have also been subsequently able to visit the place where Lesley Ann was laid to rest."