DETECTIVES investigating the murder of a woman in Bournemouth have found a car they were trying to trace.

Dorset Police yesterday launched an appeal to find the dark grey Peugeot 308 estate hire car, and it was soon tracked down in London. The appeal followed the discovery of a woman's body in a flat in Avon Close, Springbourne, on Wednesday, March 25.

A murder investigation has been launched led by detectives from Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Mark Samuel said: "We have now recovered this vehicle from the London area and I would like to thank the public for their help.

"I am still keen to hear from anyone who saw this vehicle being driven in Dorset or Hampshire between 4pm on Tuesday, March 24, and 10pm on Wednesday, March 25.

"Did you see it being driven during this time or parked up anywhere? If so, please call Dorset Police urgently.

"We are still building a picture of exactly what happened. If anyone saw or heard anything suspicious in the Avon Close area of Bournemouth or has any other information that could be useful, I would urge them to please get in touch."

A cordon remains in place at the flat in Avon Close while crime scene investigators carry out a thorough examination. Police were originally called to the scene when the woman failed to arrive at work.

The victim’s family are being supported by specially-trained family liaison officers.

A 52-year-old man, who has connections in Dorset, Hampshire and London and was known to the victim, is being questioned on suspicion of murder.

Emergency services rushed to Avon Close, which is located just off Springbourne Roundabout, shortly before 3.30pm on Wednesday when police officers discovered the casualty and called for an ambulance.

Paramedics arrived at the cul-de-sac but nothing could be done to save her. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Forensics officers wearing protective plastic suits and masks entered the building, which was surrounded by police tape, and liaised with detectives.

A heavy police presence remained into the evening, with officers guarding the entrance to the road and only allowing residents to pass.

A uniformed officer could be seen standing in the back garden of the property as the investigation continued into dusk.

A South Western Ambulance Service spokesman confirmed two crews attended the scene, but left at 5.20pm and did not take anybody to hospital.

Anyone with information about the movements of the Peugeot car during the specified time or the investigation in general is asked to call Dorset Police on 101 quoting Operation Inlet or incident number 25:160.