POLICE have launched a murder investigation following the death of a woman in her 80s in a tiny village on the Quantock Hills.

Officers were called to a property in Broomfield at around 5.45pm yesterday (Monday, March 27) following a report of a burglary in progress.

They found a woman who was badly injured. Despite the best efforts of officers and paramedics, the woman sadly died at the scene.

With the assistance of the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter and dog unit, a man in his 30s was arrested at around 8.40pm in the Broomfield area in connection with the incident and remains in police custody.

An Avon and Somerset Police officer said: "The woman’s next of kin has been informed and a specially trained family liaison officer will provide them and their family with support.

"Our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time."

Specialist crime scene investigators are currently examining the property while a forensic post mortem examination will be carried out in due course to determine how the woman died.

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Justin French said: “A cordon is in place while enquiries are carried out and there will be increased police activity in the area while a full and thorough investigation is carried out by our Major Crimes Investigations Team.

“We understand that events like this, while rare, may cause alarm and distress in the community.

"We would encourage anyone with any concerns to speak to our officers, who will be out on high-visibility patrols of the area, with any concerns and questions they may have.

“Alternatively, you can contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.”

If you have any information which could aid the police investigation and have yet to speak to officers, call 101 and quote reference 5223071427 to the call handler.

Alternatively, you can complete the Avon and Somerset Police online appeals form.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via its anonymous online form.

No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.