Police have launched a murder investigation after the body of an elderly woman was found at her home in Walsall last night.

Officers were alerted by ambulance colleagues at 6.15pm after the 74-year-old was discovered collapsed at the address in Doveridge Place, Highgate.

She was pronounced dead at the scene and early indications are that she has suffered knife injuries; a post mortem examination will take place in due course to establish the exact cause of death. The location has been sealed off to preserve evidence and to allow forensics experts to examine the scene.

House to house enquiries were conducted last night and specially-trained family liaison officers are supporting the lady’s loved ones.

Anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in or near Doveridge Place yesterday is urged to contact the Homicide Team on 101, quoting log number 1636 28/2.