A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman was found dead at an industrial estate in Colburn.

The woman's body was found near a public footpath close to the entrance of the Walkerville Industrial Estate at around 4.45pm on Wednesday, October 9.

Hunain Sabir who works at Turners Fabrications close to the entrance of the footpath said he was shocked at the news. 

He said: "I stayed at work a little later because I had to fix my bike, I was supposed to finish at 5pm but next thing I knew was there were a bunch of police cars outside at about 5.15pm.

"The ambulance came after, about 6pm."

He added: "It is terrible, I was a bit scared to be honest because I walk to work every day."

"At first I just thought it was someone missing and we saw the helicopter.

"When I heard it was a body I was surprised because that sort of thing doesn’t happen around here. It is sad."

On Wednesday, police issued an appeal to find missing 30-year-old Colburn woman, Natalie Harker, who had last been seen on Richmond Road in Catterick Garrison.

The woman's body found at the industrial estate has not yet been formally identified.

The Northern Echo: Natalie Harker, 30Natalie Harker, 30

North Yorkshire Police said: "A 44-year-old local man is being questioned in custody while extensive police enquiries continue in the area.

"Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and speak to the Force Control Room.

"Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

"Please quote reference number 12190187139 when providing details about this incident."

The Northern Echo: The entrance to a path on Walkerville Industrial Estate where police are currently carrying out their investigations. Picture: Alexa CopelandThe entrance to a path on Walkerville Industrial Estate where police are currently carrying out their investigations. Picture: Alexa Copeland