Police are treating the death of a woman whose body was discovered in a Norfolk river on New Year's Day as unexplained, launching a public appeal for information.
Grim Discovery at Riverside Beauty Spot
A member of the public made the tragic find early on Thursday, 1 January, while walking beside the River Waveney at The Quay in the market town of Beccles. The area, popular with outdoor enthusiasts, was immediately sealed off by officers who were called to the scene just after 8am.
Emergency services, including ambulance crews, attended and recovered the woman from the water under the bridge. She was confirmed deceased at the scene. A significant police presence, including three police cars and a forensics van, remained throughout the day, with tape cordoning off sections of the riverside footpath.
Police Appeal to Identify Woman and Trace Movements
Norfolk Police have not yet been able to identify the woman and are urgently seeking help from the public. Detectives are working to establish her final movements and are appealing for anyone who may have seen her in the vicinity of The Quay prior to 8am on New Year's Day.
The woman is described as:
- White, aged between 60 and 70.
- Petite build with short curly brown or copper hair.
- Wearing a cream cardigan, blue top, white jeans, and white boots.
- Possibly carrying a pink coat, a torch, and an umbrella.
In a full statement, the force said: "The death is currently being treated as unexplained, but there is currently no evidence to suggest it is suspicious." The coroner has been notified.
Community Reaction and Investigation Continues
The news has cast a shadow over the Suffolk town, with local residents sharing tributes and expressions of sympathy online. One Facebook post read, "Sending love and deepest condolences to all affected, may they find strength," while another stated, "That is so sad. Condolences to the family. How heartbreaking."
Witnesses at the scene described the emergency response. One man who had arrived to go fishing said: "We got here at about 7.30am, and there was everything here - police, fire engines and ambulances. Then, later on, they put the police tape up, and they're not letting anyone through." Another angler added his thoughts were with the woman's family.
The police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death remains ongoing.
