THE death of an elderly woman whose body was found in a stream is not believed to be suspicious, police have said.

The body of Marjorie Hannah Lancaster, 74, of Benkhill Road, Bedale, North Yorkshire, was recovered from Bedale Beck on Thursday afternoon.

It is thought Mrs Lancaster, a widow, may have fallen into the water near Bedale bridge, where people traditionally go to feed ducks. Her body was pulled from the water by a police search unit 50 yards downstream of the bridge.

A police spokesman said Mrs Lancaster's blue shoulder bag had not yet been found and anyone who may have picked it up should contact the information room on (01609) 783131.