'I have moved on': Jules Thomas splits from Ian Bailey after almost 30 years together

THE woman who has been at Ian Bailey’s side since before the Sophie Toscan du Plantier murder said “she has moved on” after confirming the couple had broke up.

Jules Thomas confirmed to The Echo this morning that they have broken up. 

“I have moved on," she said. "He is looking for somewhere else to live.

"I have not evicted him.” 

The couple have been living together in Liscaha, near Schull, and have been together for almost three decades.

Jules confirmed she will feature in a series to be broadcast on Sky next month spearheaded by director Jim Sheridan.

She would not reveal why the couple have broken up, saying: “There are a lot of personal reasons.” 

At a trial held in France, Ian Bailey was found guilty in his absence of the 1996 murder of the French film producer.

Last October, a third attempt by France to have him extradited in connection with the murder was rejected by the Irish High Court.

Mr Bailey has always denied any involvement in the murder. He was arrested twice as part of the murder investigation in Ireland but was never charged.

When asked if she still believes her former partner had nothing to do with the death of Ms Toscan du Plantier, Ms Thomas said: "He had nothing to do with that murder."

When contacted, Mr Bailey said this morning that he is not taking calls.