THE death of a woman whose body was found at a popular hotel is not being treated as suspicious, police have said.

The body of 33-year-old Alison Stamp, from Ouston, near Chester-le-Street, who went missing after finishing work in Bishop Auckland on Saturday, was found at Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, on Monday morning.

Today, Durham Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious and a file was being prepared for the coroner.

The hotel is in the grounds of Hardwick Park - a beauty spot popular with walkers and families.

Police cordoned off part of the grounds and the hotel as forensics experts carried out a thorough search.

John Hill, the general manager at the hotel, said: "I can confirm that a body was found at the hotel earlier today.

"We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the lady's family. The police have been out as part of their investigation. We are being as supportive as we can at this difficult time."

Hardwick Hall is a four star hotel run by the Best Western group just off the A1(M) surrounded by the Hardwick Country Park.

Ms Stamp was last seen leaving the Boots store where she work, in Bishop Auckland, at 11pm on Saturday.

Friends expressed their shock after the discovery of her body.

Kirsty Siberry posted: "Devasted. No words - RIP Alison."

Wendy Gill added: "So sorry to hear the news, thinking of all her family and friends."