A man suspected of killing school teacher Jane Longhurst was today being questioned by murder squad detectives.

The 35-year-old, believed to be the partner of one of Jane's friends, was arrested by police at his home in Hove at 9.04pm yesterday.

He was taken to the police custody centre in Hollingbury, Brighton, where officers leading the six-week investigation into Jane's disappearance and murder were conducting the interview.

Meanwhile, in a room just yards away, Jane's mother and sister took part in an emotional Press conference.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Dennis, heading the hunt, called the arrest "significant."

He said the suspect had already been questioned as part of the massive investigation.

There was no struggle last night as officers led the man from his home to an awaiting police car.

Police said there was "still a long way to go" in the inquiry.

Jane's mother Liz Longhurst, 71, said of the arrest: "It might not come to anything - I can't say anything more about it."

Police may have to apply to magistrates tomorrow morning to continue holding the man.

They have a maximum 96 hours from the time of arrest before charging or releasing him.

Jane's partner Malcolm Sentance, 34, is staying with a friend outside Sussex.

In a written statement read out to the Press conference he said he felt no malice towards her killer, adding: "My thoughts are with Jane and her family."

Jane, 31, who taught at Uplands School for children with learning difficulties in Hollingdean, disappeared from her home in Shaftesbury Road, Brighton, on March 14.

Her body was discovered in flames at Wiggonholt Common near Pulborough on Saturday.

DCI Dennis appealed to anyone who saw anyone carrying anything heavy in the area of the common to come forward.

He said: "It would have shown up and would have been suspicious. It might not have looked like what it really was and any information would be important to us."

Police have traced a Renault Espace and an old VW seen near the spot but are still looking for a brown or green Ford Focus.

DCI Dennis thanked the media for their help with the inquiry. The Argus if offering a £5,000 reward.

Anyone with information should contact the Operation Keen incident room on 0845 6070 999.