Police are treating the death of a 40-year-old woman whose body was discovered near a primary school Rochdale as suspicious.

At around 4.30am yesterday (Monday) police and paramedics responded to an incident near Ashfield Valley Primary School on New Barn Lane.

A woman’s body was found at the location and the school was forced to close.

An investigation has been launched. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith from GMP’s Major Investigation Team said: “I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased and our thoughts are with them at this very sad and difficult time.

“Our team are in the early stages of this investigation, and it is important that we keep an open mind and explore all lines of enquiry at this point.

“Officers from the Rochdale district will be providing a visible presence in the coming days for reassurance, and we would like to thank the local community for their cooperation and patience so far.”

Greater Manchester Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward, including any witnesses or anyone with CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage in relation to this incident.

A dedicated Major Incident Public Portal has been opened to receive information.

Images and mobile phone, dash-cam, or doorbell footage can be submitted through the Public Portal at mipp.police.uk  

Alternatively, the Major Incident Team can be contacted on 0161 856 4388 or through GMP’s LiveChat service at www.gmp.police.uk.

The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.