DETECTIVES investigating the suspicious death of a former teacher are appealing for help in tracing a pair of shoes.

The body of 44-year-old Debra McNicholas was found near the children's play area and paddling pool at Redcar at 7am on Sunday, September 16.

A post-mortem showed the mother of four had drowned, but injuries consistent with an assault or fall were found on her body.

Detectives are asking the public for help in retrieving a pair of shoes that a witness saw near the place where Mrs McNicholas' body was found.

The witness recalled seeing the black loafers, which were said to be in good condition, on the Stray between Redcar and Marske early on the Sunday morning. But the shoes had gone when officers returned to the scene.

A spokesman for Cleveland Police said: "Presumably they were removed by someone who had picked them up for safe keeping and has since forgotten to hand them in."

Detective Inspector Gordon Lang said: "I want to reassure whoever may have the shoes that they have nothing to fear from getting in touch with the incident room.

"All we are interested in at present is the shoes themselves. I would urge anyone who can help us to contact the incident room on (01642) 302690."