Fresh appeal to find those responsible for brutal 80s murder of Tonbridge pensioner Esme Hoad

As an independent charity, we're offering a substantial reward to help find who was responsible for the brutal murder of a pensioner in the 1980s. 

Esme Hoad was found dead in her home on Havelock Road, Tonbridge, Kent, on 8 December 1982 after friends raised concerns when they were unable to reach her.

Esme, who lived alone and was aged 85, had suffered a fatal stab wound to the chest and had been beaten around the head with a blunt instrument.

The police have issued efits of two people, one male, one female (see above), who are thought to have visited Esme’s home on several occasions before her death and who have links to acquiring antiques.

We're offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information we exclusively receive that leads to the conviction of those responsible for the pensioner’s murder. 

Despite a detailed investigation at the time, no one has been brought to justice for Esme’s killing.  

At the time, a significant amount of blood was found at the scene and officers recovered a distinctive shoe mark believed to have been made by a “Banana” boot.

Forty-three years on, detectives continue to appeal for any information that could help solve the case and bring some closure for Esme’s loved ones. 

Do you have information which could help? After all these years, would you like to tell us what you know - completely anonymously? No one but you will ever know that you got in touch with us - guaranteed.

Call free on 0800 555 111 or fill in our secure online form, here on our website:

Give information anonymously

Crimestoppers is offering the reward to mark the anniversary of Esme's death and to encourage anyone who may know the truth to come forward anonymously. 

“Esme was an older woman who should have felt safe in her own home. We know that time can bring new perspectives and that loyalties or relationships may have changed. Even the smallest detail could be the missing piece that helps find Esme’s killer.

“If you have information but feel unable to speak directly to the police, please contact Crimestoppers. You can tell our charity what you know whilst staying completely anonymously.”

Phil Breckon, Crimestoppers' South East Regional Manager

Anonymity: Crimestoppers guarantees complete anonymity, meaning that people who call or contact us online can pass on what they know without ever giving any personal details. Computer IP addresses are never traced. Telephone calls are never recorded, there is no caller line display and no 1471 facility.
 
Claiming a reward: The reward will only be payable for information passed directly to Crimestoppers and not to the police. A reward code must be asked for when calling our charity on 0800 555 111. If you contact us via our online form anonymously, the 'keeping in contact’ facility must be used and a reward code must be requested on your initial contact.
 
More details about the rewards process – at the heart of which is ensuring you stay 100% anonymous - can be found here.

08 December 2025