Detectives tonight have arrested a 52-year-old man on suspicion of murder following the discovery of a woman’s body in Bournemouth.

At 3.26pm on Wednesday police found the body of a woman in her 40s in a flat in Avon Close, Bournemouth, after concerns were raised that she hadn’t arrived at work as expected.

Police earlier told the Echo the death was being treated as 'suspicious' and launched a murder investigation.

Their inquiries tonight have led to the arrest of a 52-year-old man on suspicion of murder.

A Dorset Police spokesman said the arrested man has connections to Dorset, Hampshire and London and was known to the victim.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Stewart Balmer said: “We are still building a picture of exactly what happened this morning, so if anyone saw or heard anything suspicious in the Avon Close area of Bournemouth or has any other information that could be useful, please get in touch.”

A Dorset Police spokesman added: "Detectives will be continuing the investigation overnight and will provide further information to assist an appeal when it is available."

Anyone who has any useful information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 25:160. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.