A MURDER inquiry has been launched after the body of a woman was found at a house on Merseyside.

Officers discovered the human remains whilst conducting a search of the property in Norwood Crescent, Southport, in connection with another death, that of 45-year-old Gavin Tomlinson who owned the house.

His body was discovered at the property on Monday by police.

Police say the woman’s body was “well hidden” within the property and believe Mr Tomlinson may have known her. The force is not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder.

DCI Nikki Holland said: “Mr Tomlinson’s death is not believed to be suspicious and the matter has been referred to the coroner.

“I would like to reassure the local community that we are conducting an intensive and thorough investigation into this murder following this discovery today.

“We believe that the remains may belong to someone Mr Tomlinson knew and I am keen to speak to Mr Tomlinson's family and friends to help us with our enquiries. We are not looking for anyone else in connection to the murder at the moment.”

The property was cordoned off yesterday whilst forensic examinations and house-to-house enquiries took place.

Last night the crime

scene was manned by a lone policeman.

A P-registration Toyota car was stationary on the path and a bouquet of flowers had been placed next to the front door on the house.

Neighbours told of their shock on hearing that a murder investigation had been launched on their street.

One neighbour, who did not want to be named, said of Gavin Tomlinson: “I’m very shocked. He kept himself to himself and he would just say hello in the street.

“He would sometimes stop just to stroke my dog in the street. He liked dogs.

“But he would never send a Christmas card to neighbours or anything like that.

“| don’t know where he worked but he always dressed smart; wore a shirt and tie all the time.”

Brandy Bryan, who was visiting his daughter who lives on the road, said: “He had a girlfriend and he was a friendly neighbour. We hear that he was depressed.

“It’s a mystery what’s happened because it’s a quiet neighbourhood.

“It’s a shock to hear what has happened and that the police have launched a murder enquiry. That’s something you don’t expect on your own doorstep, but you don’t know what’s going on behind closed doors.”

ANYONE with information should contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 3165 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.