A WOMAN whose semi-naked body was found in a suitcase dumped in a hedge may have lain there for almost two weeks, detectives revealed yesterday.

Police are urgently trying to establish the identity of the victim, whose wrists had been bound together and tape placed over her mouth.

Police forces across the region are searching their missing persons lists for clues after the suitcase was discovered by a passer-by near the village of Askham Richard, just outside York, on Sunday night.

The murdered woman was of Asian or Oriental origin, aged between 20 and 40, and only 4ft 11.5in tall.

She was slender, with brown eyes and shoulder-length dark hair. She had pierced ears but was not wearing studs or earrings.

Anyone with information is urged to phone (01904) 618618