A MURDER investigation is underway after a post mortem was unable to establish the cause of death of an Alton woman, police have confirmed.

As previously reported by the Herald, a 59-year-old man from Alton was arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of a woman was found at an address in Spitalhatch, Alton, on Sunday afternoon.

And Hampshire Constabulary has today confirmed an investigation into the "suspicious" death is now being led by the force’s Major Crime Team.

It comes after officers were called at 2.51pm on Sunday (August 1) to an address on Spitalhatch, opposite Alton Police Station in Mill Lane, where the body of a woman was located.

A post-mortem has since taken place, but was "unable to establish the cause of her death" and so a further investigation has been launched, said a police spokesman.

Formal identification has not yet taken place, but her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

The murder suspect remained in custody as of midday on Tuesday, after his further detention was authorised by a senior officer on Monday afternoon.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Gunson said: “This investigation is in its early stages, and we ask that anyone with information make contact with us.

“There will be an ongoing police presence in the area as we conduct our enquiries, we thank local residents for their patience.

"If you can help in any way, or if you have ring doorbell or dash cam footage of the area that may assist, please call us on 101 quoting Op Postal."