A MURDER inquiry was under way last night after a 53-year-old woman died in an attack at her home.

The body of Diane Edwards was found at the house in Brierley Road, Blyth, North-umberland, on Friday afternoon.

A post-mortem examination revealed she died from injuries sustained in an assault.

Police said a 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and was being questioned.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Paterson, who is leading the investigation, said: ''Following a post-mortem examination and extensive forensic tests at the scene, I can now confirm this is a murder investigation."

He appealed to anyone who may have seen Miss Edwards in the past week to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.